Vitamin C is retained in the tissues for a maximum of 4 days. If not replenished, tissue stores quickly become depleted, and these processes are impaired. Vitamin C deficiency is more commonly known as Scurvy, the symptoms of which can be related to its metabolic roles.

1. Teeth
Guinea pigs have open-rooted, continuously growing teeth. Odontoblast cells within the pulp cavity constantly produce dentine (contains collagen). In deficiency these cells are affected, and abnormal dentine is formed which can lead to structural defects and breakages especially at the peridonteum. The periodontal ligaments holding the teeth within their sockets deteriorate rapidly and teeth may drop out if knocked.

2. Digestive Tract

Vitamin C influences the absorption of other nutrients. A deficiency of vitamin C may enhance absorption of certain amino acids (alanine and leucine), and copper which may be detrimental as copper is quite a toxic element. Conversely, the absorption of iron may be reduced (antagonistic effects between copper and iron), resulting in anaemia, compounded by a reduction in the absorption vitamin B12 - a deficiency of which causes pernicious anaemia. Vitamin B12 is required for the release of folic acid from methyl-folacin, and consequently a deficiency in B12 can result in a deficiency in folic acid which leads to megalobastic anaemia. Vitamin C is required for the conversion of cholesterol to bile acids. Bile acids emulsify dietary fats, and hence a deficiency will affect digestion. Unabsorbed fats entering the hindgut can adversely affect fermentation, and result in the production of voluminous, malodorous soft faeces. Serum cholesterol levels may be elevated reflecting reduced excretion of cholesterol from the body.

Gerty Guinea Pig

Absorption & Function

Skin & Blood Vessels