Copper metabolism and requirement in mature ponies.

This study assesses the effects of copper intake on copper metabolism and excretion in mature ponies. The research found that copper absorption and retention are impacted significantly by dietary modification and that the principal pathway of copper excretion is through bile. Based on the findings, the researchers suggest an estimated dietary copper requirement of 3.5 ppm for the maintenance of mature ponies.

Research Methodology

• The study explored the impacts of copper intake on stable copper and 64Cu metabolism and the excretion pathways of absorbed copper in ponies.
• Bile and feces were collected from two ponies with cannulated bile ducts after being given an intravenous dose of 64Cu.
• Three different intact ponies were fed dietary copper to provide 5.6, 16.6 and 25.7 mg Cu/100 kg body weight/day to examine stable copper and 64Cu metabolism.
• Isotope dilution methods and regression analyses were used to analyze data from balance studies.

Findings

• The researchers found no influence on the amount of copper excreted in urine by the dietary treatment.
• However, a significant increase was observed in stable copper absorption and 64Cu retention when the ponies were fed a low copper ration.
• Bile was identified as the primary route of endogenous copper excretion.
• A direct linear relationship was discovered between 64Cu excretion in feces and copper intake.

Conclusion

• Based on this research, an obligatory copper loss of around 3.5 mg Cu/100 kg body weight per day was estimated in ponies.
• Therefore, the scientists concluded that the estimated dietary copper requirement for the maintenance of mature ponies is 3.5 ppm.