THE RELATION OF THE LIVER TO CREATINE-CREATININE METABOLISM

Abstract

Interference with or destruction of normal liver functions in the dog, as produced by ligation of the inferior vena cava and portal vein or by complete hepatectomy, does not interfere with creatine formation in the muscles or creatinine excretion in the urine. There is a large increase in creatine excretion which reaches its peak with the total N 3 wks. after the 1st operation. Arginine and glycolic acid are transformed into muscle creatine in the complete absence of the liver. The liver plays no part in creatine formation or creatinine excretion but its presence is necessary to prevent creatinuria. This function of the liver probably assists in maintaining a uniform content of creatine in the tissues by transforming it into products other than creatinine.