Liver function and plasma protein metabolism in rodent model of filariasis

Rodent model of filariasis was developed by infecting Wistar rats with Litomosoides carinii. Liver function tests, plasma protein concentrations, and synthesis rates of liver-formed proteins were estimated in these rats at 63 and 90 days post-infection. At 63 days post-infection, aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase were significantly increased. Alanine aminotransferase, plasma total proteins and plasma albumin were in the normal range. However, at 90 days post-infection all these parameters were affected, reflecting progressive liver involvement. Hypoalbuminemia at 90 days post-infection did not appear to be due to decreased synthesis rate, indicating higher catabolism and/or altered distribution in pools.