[Oxygen-derived free radicals in acute experimental pancreatitis]

A marked decrease in the activity of superoxide dismutase together with an increase in pancreatic tissue lipid peroxidation have been found in rats with cerulein-induced acute pancreatitis (CRAP). It has been suggested, that the observed imbalance between oxygen-derived free radicals generation and inactivation may cause an injury to the pancreas. Preventive effect of hydroxyl radical scavenger in CRAP has been seen.