A dispersion model of hepatic elimination: 1. Formulation of the model and bolus considerations

A dispersion model of hepatic elimination, based on the residence time distribution of blood elements within the liver, is presented. The general rate equations appropriate for describing the hepatic output concentration of a tracer solute are derived. Particular consideration is given to events following a bolus input dose of a tracer. The model is shown to be compatible with the known hepatic architecture and hepatic physiology. The model has been fitted to hepatic outflow data for red blood cells, albumin, and other noneliminated solutes. The experimental data suggest a high degree of dispersion of blood elements within the liver. The model has also been used to evaluate the effects of changes in enzyme activity, hepatic cell permeability, blood flow, and protein binding on the outflow concentration vs. time profiles of solutes.