Metabolism of human serum albumin in man during acute exposure to high altitude (14,100 feet).

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Abstract
The metabolism of human serum albumin was studied by means of albumin-1131 in 5 young males at 5,280 ft. and for 8 days at 14,100 ft. altitude. The data were analyzed in a manner enabling the daily estimation of the rate of albumin degradation and svnthesis+net transfer from the extravascular (EV) to intravascular (IV) compartments. Albumin degradation was Increased markedly for 24-48 hr. within the 1st 3 days at altitude. A large shift of high specific activity albumin from the EV to IV compartments occurred towards the end of altitude exposure and was accompanied by a decrease in the rate of albumin synthesis+net transfer. These observations were associated with a decrease In the Intake of calories and protein (minimum - 0.9 g/kg per day) and a negative N balance.