EFFECTS OF HIGH FAT TOTAL PARENTERAL NUTRITION SOLUTIONS ON RATS WITH AND WITHOUT TUMORS
Abstract
Total parenteral nutrition (TPN) solutions containing high fat have been shown to slow tumor growth within four days in rats, however, data on body composition were not obtained. The present study was designed in two phases to determine the effects of high fat TPN solutions on the composition of the carcass, organs, and tumor. Sprague-Dawley rats, implanted with the Walker 256 carcinosarcoma, were randomly assigned to either diet (A) a glucose based TPN formula, (B) a lipid based TPN formula adjusted to 67% fat and isocaloric to A, or (C) a purified powdered diet fed ad libitum. Equal assignments were made for non-tumor controls. In phase I, host and tumor tissue were evaluated anthropometrically, hematologically, and histologically. Both tumor and non-tumor rats infused with diet A or B maintained body weight, while tumor but not non-tumor rats fed diet C showed signs of anorexia with accompanying weight loss. All rats infused with diet B (none of which survived longer than six days) had enlarged spleens and livers, small thymuses, and a significant decrease in hematocrit and hemoglobin. Histological analysis revealed that these livers had vacuoles which resembled fat droplets, while lungs showed pronounced vasculitis. Tumor growth as determined by density and weight was not altered. In phase II, carcass, organ, and tumor composition were determined. Carcasses of tumor-bearing rats infused with diet B had higher percenage of fat, lower nitrogen content, and higher amount of triglycerides compared to those infused with diet A or fed diet C. Organs of rats infused with diet B had lower percentage of protein, higher percentage of fat, and higher amounts of triglycerides and cholesterol than rats infused with diet A or fed diet C. Tumors of rats infused with diet B had a higher triglyceride content than tumors of rats infused with diet A or fed diet C. Diet composition did not affect tumor growth. These observations indicate that an abnormal pathological response results when 67% of the kilocalories are infused as fat.
Degree
Ph.D.
Subject Area
Nutrition
Off-Campus Purdue Users:
To access this dissertation, please log in to our
proxy server.