Rapid ATP assays in perfused mouse liver by 31P NMR.

Abstract

31P NMR was used to continuously monitor ATP and Pi levels in perfused mouse liver. Under optimal conditions, the time resolution of the technique was approximately 1 min. In the absence of any metabolic perturbations the ATP level remained constant for at least 2 h and decreased by only approximately 20% in 18 h. Both ATP and Pi levels responded to alterations in the O2 supply to the liver. The half-time for this response was approximately 1 min, and the response to short periods of hypoxia or ischemia was partially reversible. The addition of insulin caused only a minor decrease in the ATP level but significantly decreased the rate of response of ATP and Pi levels to hypoxia and ischemia.