The metabolism of ethers in the rabbit. 1. Anisole and diphenyl ether

Abstract
The fate of anisole (methyl phenyl ether) and diphenyl ether in the rabbit was studied. These ethers are hydroxylated and the resultant phenols are excreted unconjugated and conjugated with glucuronic and sulphuric acids to the extent of 2, 48, and 29% of the dose of anisole and 15, 63, and 12% for diphenyl ether respectively. The chief metabolite of anisole is p-methoxyphenol but a small amt. of o-methoxyphenol is also formed. No fission of the ether linkage was detected. The chief metabolite of diphenyl ether is p-hydroxyphenyl phenyl ether but a small amt. of another metabolite probably di(p-hydroxy-phenyl) ether is also formed. No fission of the ether linkage was detected.