The induction of ω and β-oxidation of fatty acids and effect on α_2u globulin content in the liver and kidney of rats administered 2, 2, 4-trimethylpentane

Abstract

1. The effect of daily administration of 12 mmol/kg 2, 2, 4-trimethylpentane for 10 d on hepatic and renal microsomal mono-oxygenase activity, peroxisomal β-oxidation and the concentration of α_2u-globulin has been examined in male and female rats.

2. 2, 2, 4-Trimethylpentane produces liver and, to a lesser extent, kidney enlargement. This is associated with the selective induction of cytochrome P-450-mediated ω-oxidation and peroxisomal β-oxidation of fatty acids and proliferation of peroxisomes. Male rats show a more marked response than female rats.

3. 2, 2, 4-Trimethylpentane produces an increase in α_2u-globulin in the kidney of male rats.

4. The relevance of selective induction of ω- and β-oxidation of fatty acids and accumulation of α_2u-globulin to renal tubular necrosis in male rats requires further study.