Tissue glycogen and lactate levels in starved and in protein-fed domestic fowl chicks (Gallus domesticus).

The levels of glycogen, protein and lactate in the tissues of 3- and 5-day-old domestic fowl chicks either starved or fed a protein diet (hard-boiled egg white) have been studied. The patterns of change in the parameters studied were much similar in both experimental groups compared to fed controls. Tissue and circulating levels of lactate were very low in protein-fed chicks, they are lowest in the starved ones. Plasma glucose levels were diminished in starved and protein-fed groups vs. controls, as were their tissue glycogen levels, the latter being lowest in starved chicks. The availability of dietary amino acids could not prevent the effects of the lack of dietary carbohydrate observed in starved chicks, as the weight of liver, circulating glucose and lactate levels were significantly lowered in these animals compared with controls.