Developmental changes on protein turnover in growing rats fed on diets containing field beans (Vicia faba L.) as source of protein.

The effects of nutrition with Vicia Faba L. administered at two different levels (12 and 18% protein) on the developmental changes of protein turnover were investigated in the rat. The myofibrillar gain and synthesis values were lower in the animals fed on legume protein as compared with casein-fed controls, while no differences were found in myofibrillar degradation during the three periods of time evaluated (0-14, 14-28 and 28-45 days). The fractional myofibrillar gain, breakdown and synthesis calculated as the sum of both, decreased with age in all the dietary groups. The antinutritional effects of the inclusion of Vicia faba L. in diets were more evident in the first 28 days, and attributed to a decreased muscle protein synthesis.