The isolation of two forms of hepatic zinc-thioneins after either zinc injection into rats or partial restriction of their food intake is described. The proteins differed slightly in their amino acid composition and electrophoretic mobilities. Increases in liver zinc content after both treatments were synchronous with, and associated almost completely with, increased zinc-binding to these proteins. The time-course for the appearance and disappearance of the zinc proteins is shown. It is suggested that metallothionein is involved in the normal metabolism of zinc, perhaps in some temporary storage or detoxication capacity.
