INDUCTION OF DDT-METABOLIZING ENZYMES IN MICROSOMES OF RAT LIVER AFTER ADMINISTRATION OF DDT

Abstract

DDT is metabolized by rat liver microsomes to a phenolic compound and to a reduced derivative similar to DDD. When rats were injected intraperitoneally with DDT, the microsomal DDT-metabolizing activity was greatly increased. This effect was blocked by the administration of puromycin. DDT administration also increases the content of liver microsomal protein. The results show that the insecticide probably increases the DDT-metabolizing activity of mammalian liver by inducing enzyme synthesis.