[The effect of halothane on the fructose metabolism in the liver]

Glucose production from frutose (2 mmol) and fructolysis was studied in perfused rat liver. In the presence of halothane (0.5, 1.5, and 4.0 vol%) glucose production was inhibited, whereas lactate production was stimulated. Total fructose metabolism was unchanged. Since halogenated hydrocarbon compounds are known to inhibit the mitochondrial respiratory chain, it is concluded that glucose synthesis is inhibited due to decreased supply of energy-rich phosphates from oxidative phosphorylation. On the other hand, this depletion of energy may be partially compensated for by an increased extramitochondrial energy production due to fructolysis.