Content of cyclic nucleotides and activity of acid and alkaline phosphates were determined. Limb bones and lumbar vertebrae were subjected to histomorphometric examinations. Elementary analysis of bones, included trace elements, were conducted by the neutron- activation method. In the blood plasma, calcitonin, parathyroid hormone, corticosterone, calcium, sodium, potassium, phosphorus, and acid and alkaline phosphates were biochemically measured. The thyroid gland (C-cells) and adrenopituitary gland were also removed and histologic and histomorphometric examinations were performed.

Results:

Results demonstrate the appearance of initial minor signs of the developing osteoporosis in the spongiosa of proximal metaphyses of tibiae, represented as a decrease in volume density of secondary spongiosa and an increase of bone resorption surface. Such changes correlate with biochemical data demonstrating a tendency towards a decrease in alkaline phosphatase activity (an enzyme of bone formation) and an increase in activity of tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase (an enzyme of bone resorption). Neutron-activation analysis revealed a decreased bone content of such macroelements as calcium, phosphorus, sodium, and chloride, which in accord with a depressed functional activity of thyroid C-cells producing calcitonin, is necessary for normal mineralization of bone matrix. In accord with previous studies, higher calcium and lower phosphorus blood content confirmed mineral metabolism disturbances. In the pituitary, a depression of somatotrophic activity occurred (a decrease of synthesis and secretion of growth hormone).