An examination of liver enzymes and histopathological changes in rats affected by diethylstilbestrol

Purpose: In this study, we aimed to observe possible changes in enzymatic parameters, and histopathological effects on the rat liver tissues caused by diethylstilbestrol (DES). Material and Method: Diethylstilbestrol at the dose of 0.4 mg/ g/ day, (· 60 mg/ rat) had orally been given to the pregnant rats starting from the second day of the pregnancy for 19 days by oral gavage. Mother rats were killed by cervical dislocation on the last day, of pregnancy. In prepared homogenates from liver tissues alanin amino transferase (ALT), laktate dehidrogenase (LDH), alkaline fosfatase (ALP), gamma glutamik transferase (GGT), aspartat aminotransaminase (AST) enzymes were measured by Ciba Corning Express Plus autoanalyzer. GST enzyme was studied by spectrophotometric assay. Histopathological examination was performed by a routine method using light microscope. Results: Statistically significant differences were found in liver ALT (U= 36; p<0,05), LDH (U=32;p<0,05), AST (U=36; p<0,05) and ALP (U=36;p<0,05) in the experimental group compared to control rats. Other enzyme activities did not show any significant differences between the two groups (p>0,05). Histopathological examination generally revealed diffuse hydropic degeneration and reactive Kupffer cell hyperplasia. Focal necrosis and perivenous inflammatory, infiltration were occasionally seen in livers of mother rats. In the offsprings, diffuse hydropic degeneration, hyperemia and remnants of extramedullary hematopoiesis were observed. Conclusion. Morphological and biochemical interaction in rat livers after DES administration could be time and dose depent.