Tian DA, Hong JM, Liu NZ, Wang JL. Effects of L-arginine on expression of nitric oxide synthase and oxidative stress in rat liver tissues with alcoholic hepatic steatosis.
Shijie Huaren Xiaohua Zazhi 2004;
12:702-705. [DOI:
10.11569/wcjd.v12.i3.702]
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Abstract
AIM: To study the effects of L-arginine on the expression of nitric oxide synthase and oxidative stress in rat liver tissues with alcoholic hepatic steatosis.
METHODS: The rat alcoholic hepatic steatosis models were made with ethanol supplied in the drinking water.32 SD rats were randomly divided into four groups (n = 8 in each group). Rats were fed with 400 mL/L ethanol for up to 16 (group A) or 20 (group B) wks. Rats in group C were fed with ethanol as rats in group B and administered with L-arginine by intraperitoneal injection from the 17th wk. Group D was the normal control. Rats in groups B and D were administered normal saline by intraperitoneal injection from the 17th wk. The expression of protein and mRNA of NOS in the liver was detected with immunohistochemistry and reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction. Meanwhile, NO, MDA, GSH,SOD contents were measured and histopathological changes were observed in the liver tissues.
RESULTS: In groups A and B, different degrees of steatosis could be seen. Steatosis was more significant in group B than in group A (t = 76.5, P < 0.05). Compared to group D, NO and MDA contents and the expression of iNOS were significantly increased (P < 0.01). However, GSH and SOD contents and the expression of eNOS were significantly decreased (P < 0.05) in groups A and B. In comparison to group B, steatosis in the liver was reversed or significantly lessened (t = 62.5, P < 0.05), NO contents were unchanged, MDA contents and the expression of iNOS were significantly decreased (P<0.05), GSH and SOD contents and the expression of eNOS were markedly increased in the group C (P < 0.05).
CONCLUSION: The therapeutic effects of L-arginine on alcoholic hepatic steatosis are probably involved in decreased iNOS expression, increased eNOS expression and alleviated oxidative stress.
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