Zinc Deficiency in Suckling Mice Deprived of Colostrum

Newborn mice deprived of colostrum by being nursed by foster mothers in later stages of lactation developed disorders characterized by retarded growth, altered skin conditions (including alopecia), and skeletal deformities, among other symptoms. These disorders were linked to a significant reduction in zinc levels in the body. The study found that colostrum contains a higher content of zinc compared to milk produced later in lactation. Supplementing with inorganic zinc prevented these disorders, while other nutrients like vitamin B1 and B2 compounds, liver pap, and yeast had a mitigating effect. This suggests that colostrum is crucial for providing zinc necessary for normal development in suckling mice.