Cell population kinetics and biochemical changes in the rat stomach during magnesium deficiency.

Cell populations of rat stomach have been counted following varying (4-60 days) periods of magnesium-deficient diet and compared to a control group. The activity of beta-glucuronidase and the serotonin concentration were assayed in magnesium-deficient and control rats within four weeks. In the rat stomach the magnesium deficiency produces a numerical decrease in mucous cells, especially marked after 3 and 4 weeks. At this time, the activity of beta-glucuronidase decreases significantly. The concentration of serotonin increases at an earlier time and this increase coincides with the onset of the typical erythema occurring in magnesium-deficient rats.