Diglycolic acid induces HepG2/C3A liver cell toxicity in vitro

Area of Science:

• Food science
• Toxicology
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Carboxymethyl starches are common food additives used for thickening and as tablet binders.
• The synthesis of these starches produces diglycolic acid (DGA), a chemical byproduct with questionable toxicity.
• Previous reports indicate DGA may affect organs, particularly the kidneys and liver, following high-concentration exposure.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential hepatotoxicity of diglycolic acid (DGA) using an in vitro model.
• To complement existing in vivo studies on DGA's toxic effects.
• To assess the dose-dependent hepatotoxic effects of DGA exposure.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the HepG2/C3A human liver cell line for in vitro testing.
• Exposed cells to escalating doses of DGA over a 24-hour period.
• Compared in vitro findings with results from a concurrent 28-day in vivo rat study.

Main Results:

• Diglycolic acid (DGA) demonstrated dose-dependent hepatotoxicity in the HepG2/C3A cellular model.
• Both in vitro cell-based assays and in vivo animal studies identified DGA as a hepatotoxin.
• A consistent threshold for DGA-induced hepatotoxicity was observed across both testing systems.

Conclusions:

• Diglycolic acid (DGA) is confirmed as a hepatotoxin when exposure exceeds a certain threshold.
• In vitro models, such as the HepG2/C3A system, are valuable tools for predicting in vivo toxicological outcomes.
• The findings support the need for careful consideration of DGA levels in food products containing carboxymethyl starches.