The effect of 1,25-(OH)2-D3 administration to vitamin D-replete rats on Cu, Zn and Fe distribution in their bodies was investigated in this study. 1,25-(OH)2-D3 was subcutaneously injected at two dosage levels (0.05 or 0.5μg/kg body weight) for five days. Serum Ca concentration was increased only in the rats at the dosage level of 0.5μg/kg body weight. In some tissues, 1,25-(OH)2-D3 administration increased Cu and Zn contents. Particularly, at the dosage level of 0.5μg/kg body weight, the contents of these minerals were increased in the upper site of small intestine, the main Cu and Zn absorption site. These results suggested the promoted absorption of Cu and Zn by 1,25-(OH)2-D3. In the kidney, the increase of Cu content was observed at both dosage levels and Zn content showed a similar tendency. The weight of kidney was also increased dose-dependently. Therefore, the impaired renal function by vitamin D excess might be related with the accumulation of Cu and Zn in the kidney.
