Dietary protein young rats

Effect of Dietary Protein On Skeletal Integrity in Young Rats... 

The protein requirement for reproduction varies in different species. In the rat a dietary protein content of 5 per cent or less in the diet was found insufficient for ovulation and reproduction (19, 20). Macomber (21), however, stated that the reduction in the amount of protein had little effect upon conception and pregnancy beyond a reduction in fertility, and a slight effect upon the weight of the young even when the reduction was extreme. There Is good evidence that qualitative protein deficiency interferes vdth reproduction, since diets containing wheat (9) or gliadin (22,23) as the main sources of protein lead to cessation of estrus cycles. Addition of casein or lysine restores ability to reproduce. 

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