Amino acid metabolism during hemoperfusion over biological materials

We investigated the possibilities of liberation of toxic coma potentiating substances from the damaged hepatic tissues during the hemoperfusion over small liver pieces. Concentrations of nearly all amino acids rose during the perfusion due to the damage of hepatic tissues, but the molar ratio of BCAA to AAA was not changed. Free fatty acid levels in the perfusates increased slightly, however, methylmercaptan level remained constant. These results suggest that liberated substances from the damaged liver would not potentiate hepatic encephalopathy. Therefore, hemoperfusion over small liver pieces should be an useful method for hepatic assist because of excellent detoxification effects.