Effect of folate deficiency on microsomal drug metabolism and heme content in the intestinal mucosa of guinea pigs.

The relationship between folate deficiency, heme content, and microsomal drug metabolism in the intestinal mucosa of the guinea pig was examined. Weanling male guinea pigs were pair-fed a folate-deficient diet, and intestinal mucosal folate levels were measured. A significant decrease (75%) in these levels was observed at 3 weeks after diet initiation. A significant decrease (78%) in intestinal mucosal drug metabolism (7-ethoxycoumarin O-deethylase activity) and a significant decrease (46%) in intestinal mucosal heme content were also observed at this time. These findings indicate that folic acid deficiency in the guinea pig results in a marked reduction in heme content and microsomal drug metabolism of the intestinal mucosa.