Dietary pyridoxine loadings affect incidence of "spontaneous" seizures among magnesium-deprived Mongolian gerbils (Meriones unguiculatus).

The "spontaneous" tetanic attacks in magnesium (Mg) deficiency resemble those occurring in pyridoxine (Pyr) deficiency. A common mechanism may underlie both seizure patterns. Nine groups (n = 10) of male Mongolian gerbils that were Mg-deprived, Pyr-deprived, or both were used to explore this possibility. The animals were tested for spontaneous seizing in an open field at four-day intervals over 40 days. By the end of the period, 70% of the gerbils that were both Mg- and Pyr-deprived had seized, and 90% had died. One fatality, but no seizures, occurred among Pyr-deprived groups given 500 to 2,000 ppm Mg in the food. No seizures occurred among the Mg-deprived groups fed 20 to 100 ppm Pyr, though several animals given 20 ppm Pyr died. Deaths and seizures occurred within Mg-deprived groups fed more than 100 ppm Pyr. A possible role of Pyr in Mg metabolism is discussed.