Cholesterol synthesis and hmg coa reductase activity during hepatocarcinogenesis in rats

Abstract

1. 1. Two treatment regimes were used to produce preneoplastic foci (as determined by the presence of γ-glutamyl transferase) in rat liver. 2. 2. Increased [ 14C]acetate incorporation into cholesterol and 3-hydroxy-3-methyl glutaryl CoA reductase activity were associated with high levels of γ-glutamyl transpeptidase and foci formation. 3. 3. Dietary feedback inhibition of both[ 14C]acetate incorporation and 3-hydroxy-3-methyl glutaryl CoA reductase activity was reduced at a selected time when γ-glutamyl transpeptidase activity was high. 4. 4. These changes could not be accounted for by a regenerative response in the liver.