[Effect of the liver protecting compound ES 914 on D-galactosamine induced experimental hepatitis in the rat]

The i.p. application of 400 mg/kg D-galactosamine to rats induces liver damage which histologically resembles hepatitis. As also shown in the present investigation, the transaminases SGOT and SGPT in the serum of the damaged animals strongly increase already within 24 h. In the present investigation part of the animals (rats) was treated with 15, 30, 60, 125, 250 and 500 mg/kg of a new hepatoprotective preparation alpha,alpha-dithio-dicapronic acid (ES 914, Lipexal Berna) 2 h before and 6 h after the application of the liver damaging substance D-galactosamine (dose 400 mg/kg). ES 914 was applied p.o. whereas D-galactosamine was injected i.p. The transaminases were estimated at the beginning of the experiments as well as 24 h after the injection of D-galactosamine. The statistical evaluation of the results showed an increasing protective effect depending on the increasing dosage of the preparation ES 914. The protective effect begins at the latest with the dose of 30 mg/kg ES 914 and with 60 mg/kg it is highly significant (p less than or equal to 0.001). With a dosage of 500 mg/kg ES 914 the increase of SGOT and SGPT values is virtually abolished.