Possible Mechanisms of Diethyldithiocarbamate-Induced Gastro-Duodenal Mucosal Damage in Rats

Abstract

A single s. c. injection of diethyldithiocarbamate (DDC, 1 g/kg) induced not only gastric but also duodenal mucosal damage in rats. DDC induced marked decreases in gastric acid output, gastro-duodenal mucosal blood flow and transmucosal potential difference prior to the development of mucosal lesions. Superoxide dismutase activity in the gastro-duodenal mucosa was also inhibited, while catalase and glutathione peroxidase activities gradually increased after the administration of DDC. These results suggest that a decrease in mucosal defensive mechanisms plays an important role in the development of DDC-induced gastro-duodenal mucosal damage and that oxygen-derived free radicals may also participate in the development of this mucosal damage.

Key Words:

• Diethyldithiocarbamate
• gastro-duodenal mucosal damage
• mucosal blood flow
• oxygen-derived free radicals
• superoxide dismutase