CHANGES IN THIAMINE IN THE DEVELOPING CHICK EMBRYO

Abstract

1. There is no change in the total thiamine contents of the egg during the course of incubation but there is a gradual transfer of thiamine to the embryo in the esterified form with development of the embryo. The quantity of thiamine in other parts gradually decreases and there is a marked decrease in the free thiamine parallel with development of the yolksac and allantois. The major part of the thiamine in the allantois including the allantoic fluid, is in the free form.
2. In the embryo, thiamine is stored in the brain and muscle and there is a gradual transfer to the heart, liver and intestine. With increase in function of the latter organs, a sharp rise in the thiamine levels occurs.