Factors affecting the retention of 59Fe, 125I, and 51Cr by mice

The effect of fasting and whole-body exposure to radiation on the retention of 59Fe (ferrous citrate), 51Cr (sodium chromate), and 125I (radioiodinated serum albumin (human)), was studied in mice by means of a whole-body counter. The labelled compounds were administered orally, intraperitoneally, and intravenously. The present study indicates that fasting increases the rate of retention of the labelled compounds studied, and the extent of the increase is dependent upon the type of isotopic compound and the route of administration. Whole-body exposure to radiation (500 R) can also affect the retention of these labelled compounds and when affected there is always a decreased retention (increased excretion). The extent of the decrease is influenced by the type of tagged compound and the mode of administration.