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[Rhythmicity in the structure-functional changes in hepatocytes following exposure to pesticides]
Abstract:
The processes of dursban biotransformation during the liver perfusion in rats exposed to CCl4 and milbex for 4, 8 and 15 days (microsomal enzyme inhibitor and inducer, respectively) were studied. The ultrastructure of hepatocytes was examined in the animals treated with the mentioned poisons. Three stages of the structural and functional changes were revealed. Reconstruction of the dursban biotransformation ways occurred from the 8th day, i.e. the dialkylation processes were intensified, resulting in production of less toxic metabolites.
Insights
This study investigated chlorpyrifos (dursban) metabolism in rat livers. After 8 days, rats exposed to milbex showed enhanced dialkylation, producing less toxic compounds.
Area of Science:
- Toxicology
- Biochemistry
- Hepatology
Background:
- Chlorpyrifos (dursban) is an organophosphate insecticide.
- Liver function is crucial for xenobiotic metabolism.
- Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) and milbex are known hepatotoxicants and enzyme modulators.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the biotransformation pathways of chlorpyrifos in rat livers.
- To examine the effects of CCl4 and milbex on chlorpyrifos metabolism.
- To correlate ultrastructural hepatocyte changes with metabolic alterations.
Main Methods:
- Rat liver perfusion studies.
- Exposure to CCl4 (microsomal enzyme inhibitor) and milbex (inducer) for 4, 8, and 15 days.
- Examination of hepatocyte ultrastructure via electron microscopy.
Main Results:
- Three distinct stages of structural and functional hepatocyte changes were observed.
- Dursban biotransformation pathways began reconstructing around day 8.
- Intensified dialkylation processes led to the formation of less toxic metabolites.
Conclusions:
- Hepatocyte exposure to CCl4 and milbex alters chlorpyrifos biotransformation.
- Enzyme induction by milbex promotes detoxification pathways.
- Dursban metabolism shifts towards less toxic products following prolonged exposure and enzyme induction.