Effects of inadequate vitamin E and/or selenium nutrition on enzymes associated with xenobiotic metabolism

Abstract

Effects of inadequate vitamin E (E) and/or selenium (Se) nutrition on the activities of cytochrome P-450 mixed function oxidase system (heme hydroperoxidase, p-nitroanisole O-demethylase), and epoxide hydrolase have been investigated. Heme hydroperoxidase activity of liver and lung microsomes was significantly decreased in E deficiency. In the liver, Se deficiency resulted in a significant increase in hydroperoxidase activity. In contrast to the peroxidase activity, liver demethylase activity was only marginally affected in E Se deficiency states. However, kidney demethylase activity was increased two fold in Se deficient states. Liver microsomal epoxide hydrolase activity was significantly increased in both E and Se deficiency states.