Periconceptional zinc deficiency affects uterine ³H‐estradiol binding in mice

To better define the mechanisms by which zinc (Zn) deficiency influences periconceptional development, we examined the effects of this developmental insult on uterine estrogen metabolism. CD‐1 mice were assigned to 1 of 3 groups (Low Zn, LZ; Control, C; or Replete, R) and fed either a low Zn (⩽0.3 μg Zn/g) or control diet (47 μg Zn/g) 5 days prior to gestation day (GD) 0 and continuing up to GD 4 during early pregnancy. Mice in the R group were fed the low Zn diet until GD 1 after which they were fed the control diet. Uterine ³H‐estradiol binding in vivo was measured on GD 2, GD 3, and GD 4. Binding was similar among groups on GD 2 and GD 3, but was lower on GD 4 in LZ mice than in C and R mice (61% of control value). On GD 4, uterine ³H‐estradiol binding in vitro was measured and was lower in LZ mice than in C and R mice (63‐‐74% of control values); the reduction in binding was due to lower receptor number. Thus, Zn deficiency can result in a reduction in uterine estradiol receptors and estradiol binding. © 1995 Wiley‐Liss, Inc.