The induction of ω and β-oxidation of fatty acids and effect on α2uglobulin content in the liver and kidney of rats administered 2, 2, 4-trimethylpentane

The effect of daily administration of 12 mmol/kg 2,2,4-trimethylpentane for 10 d on hepatic and renal microsomal mono-oxygenase activity, peroxisomal beta-oxidation and the concentration of alpha 2u-globulin has been examined in male and female rats. 2,2,4-Trimethylpentane produces liver and, to a lesser extent, kidney enlargement. This is associated with the selective induction of cytochrome P-450-mediated omega-oxidation and peroxisomal beta-oxidation of fatty acids and proliferation of peroxisomes. Male rats show a more marked response than female rats. 2,2,4-Trimethylpentane produces an increase in alpha 2u-globulin in the kidney of male rats. The relevance of selective induction of omega- and beta-oxidation of fatty acids and accumulation of alpha 2u-globulin to renal tubular necrosis in male rats requires further study.