Liver necrosis and lipid peroxidation in the rat

Abstract

Liver necrosis in rats was studied, with special reference to lipid peroxidation occurring liver and kidney. Peroxidation was measured by means of thiobarbituric acid, and the limitations of this method are discussed. Sel had no effect on peroxidation when given at 0-05 ppm in the diet, although it completely prevented liver necrosis. At 0-5 ppm Se significantly decreased peroxidation in the kidney. D-[alpha]-tocopheryl acetate at 10 or 20 ppm in the diet decreased the incidence of liver necrosis markedly, but the effects on peroxidation in liver and kidney were small and not significant. DPPD (N,N[image]-diphenyl-p-phenylenediamine) was tested at 20 and 40 ppm in the diet. At 40 ppm it significantly decreased peroxidation in liver and kidney, but did not completely prevent liver necrosis. DPPD had more effect on peroxidation and less on liver necrosis than similar levels of vitamin E. Tocopheronolactone, given daily by mouth, was ineffective in preventing liver necrosis. The hypothesis of a simple in vivo antioxidant role for vitamin E and Se is discussed and criticized.