Stimulation of hepatic polyamine metabolism following intraperitoneal injection of some dietary oils

Intraperitoneal injection of partially hydrogenated marine oil into rats is shown to cause marked stimulation of hepatic polyamine metabolism, as characterized by increased activity of ornithine decarboxylase (EC 4.1.1.17), and corresponding increase in tissue levels of putrescine. A maximal effect was observed about 5 hours after injection. An effect on the hepatic activity of S-adenosyl-methionine decarboxylase (EC 4.1.1.50) was also observed. Of the various dietary oils examined only partially hydrogenated marine oil gave significant stimulation of polyamine metabolism. A single oral dose of partially hydrogenated marine oil gave a small increase in hepatic ornithine decarboxylase activity.