Detoxification of DDT by the Perfused Bovine Liver

Abstract

Five bovine livers were isolated and perfused with DDT [2,2-bis (p-chlorophenyl)-1,1,1-trichloroethane] to study the ability of liver to detoxify chlorinated hydrocarbons. A perfusion apparatus was designed and constructed so as to minimize contact of perfusate or tissue vrith metal or plastic.Within fifteen minutes after dosing there was a measurable decrease of DDT in the perfusate and a significant increase in DDD [2,2-bis (p-chlorophenyl) 1,1-dichloroethane]. Levels of DDE (2,2-bis (p-chlorophenyl) 1,1-dichloroethylene] were low at the beginning and increased only slightly during the experiment. It was demonstrated that isolated perfused bovine liver was capable of dehalogenating DDT to its less toxic analog, DDD. Production of DDE was probably due to catalytic action caused by hemoglobin breakdown. At the end of each two-hour perfusion experiment the livers still had a natural appearance and probably could have been used longer had it been necessary.