Liver growth and mixed-function oxidase activity: dose-dependent stimulatory and inhibitory effects of alpha-hexachlorocyclohexane.

Abstract

α-hexachlorocyclohexane (α-HCH) elicits liver growth and stimulation of hepatic microsomal mixed-function oxidase. In the present study the extent of these changes was determined in rats 2, 4 and 6 days after treatment with doses of α-HCH ranging from 1 to 600 mg/kg. Above the respective threshold doses liver mass, liver DNA, and the rate of aminopyrine demethylation increased in proportion to the log dose. Threshold doses were calculated to be 30 mg/kg for the increase of liver weight and DNA, and 5 mg/kg for the stimulation of aminopyrine demethylation.