Seasonal changes in the fat, protein and metal content of the liver of the starling Sturnus vulgaris

Abstract In the starling liver there are seasonal variations in the concentrations of zinc, copper, iron, cadmium and mercury. Some of these variations may be related to seasonal changes in the fat and protein content of the liver. It is suggested that an understanding of the significance of the levels of toxic metals in any animal will depend upon an understanding of the seasonal changes in the protein composition of tissues.

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