Changes in ionised Mg2+ and Ca2+ in maternal serum during weaning in goats.
Ionised levels of serum magnesium (Mg2+) and calcium (Ca2+) were measured in HEPES-buffered serum from lactating goats before and during weaning. During this period, there was a significant rise in serum Ca2+, and a concomitant fall in Mg2+. These opposing changes can be explained by the known enhanced absorption of Ca relative to Mg by the gut during lactation coupled with a Ca-induced suppression of PTH-driven renal Ca and Mg reabsorption. A rise in the serum Ca2+/Mg2+ ratio during weaning suggests that this is a period of potential cardiovascular risk for the mother, and merits closer study.
Gow
I F
IF
Animal Physiology Group, Hannah Research Institute, Ayr KA6 5HL, Scotland. gowi@hri.sari.ac.uk
D000818:Animals; D002118:Calcium / Q000097:blood*; D005260:Female; D006041:Goats / Q000378:metabolism*; D007774:Lactation / Q000502:physiology; D008274:Magnesium / Q000097:blood*; D014886:Weaning
D008274:Magnesium; D002118:Calcium