Metabolic studies concerning the effect of castration in rabbits

ABSTRACT

The effect of castration i.e. deficiency of testosterone, on protein metabolism was studied in rabbits for two months. The results revealed a significant decrease in total protein, albumin, alpha1, and alpha2 globulin throughout the experimental periods. Meanwhile, beta and gamma globulins displayed a temporarily increase and a delayed decrease respectively. On the other hand, the catabolic product compounds, uric acid and urea but not creatinine increased significantly. Moreover, liver function test transaminases [S. GPT and S. GOT], alkaline phosphatase and gamma-glutamyl transferase [gamma-GT] displayed no significant alterations throughout the experimental periods. These results indicated that the possible increase in the weight of the animal is not due to excessive meat production but a possible increase in fat deposition as a consequence of new docile behaviour of the castrated animal