Lead does not affect transcription of intestinal zinc-binding proteins in growing rats.

Environmental lead exposure remains a serious concern for the growth and development of children. Micronutrient status may affect the absorption and tissue accumulation of lead, but the mechanisms of gastrointestinal uptake and transport remain unknown. Thus, our objective was to investigate the effects of lead on the mRNA levels of intestinal zinc transporter 4 (ZIP4), metallothionein (MT), cysteine-rich intestinal protein (CRIP), and divalent metal transporter 1 (DMT1) in growing rats fed marginal, adequate, and supplemental zinc diets.

Selectivity of cyclooxygenase isoform activity and prostanoid production in normal and diseased Han:SPRD-cy rat kidneys.

Renal prostanoids are important regulators of normal renal function and maintenance of renal homeostasis. In diseased kidneys, renal cylooxygenase (COX) expression and prostanoid formation are altered. With the use of the Han:Sprague-Dawley-cy rat, the aim of this study was to determine the relative contribution of renal COX isoforms (protein, gene expression, and activity) on renal prostanoid production [thromboxane B(2) (TXB(2), stable metabolite of TXA(2)), prostaglandin E(2) (PGE(2)), and 6-keto-prostaglandin F(1alpha) (6-keto-PGF(1alpha), stable metabolite of PGI(2))] in normal and diseased kidneys.