Effect of Antioxidants on Dietary Necrotic Liver Degeneration. 1

Summary Thirteen antioxidants were tested at varying dose levels against dietary necrotic liver degeneration produced in rats by a Vit. E-deficient, 30% Torula yeast ration. The substances can roughly be grouped in 3 different classes: (I) Ascorbic acid (.5%) and methylene blue (.5%) showed activity, but did not afford more than 30 to 40% protection, even at higher dose levels. Antabuse (.2%) was ineffective. (II) Inactive antioxidants: NDGA (nordihydroguaiaretic acid), n-propylgallate, DBPC (2,6-di-tert-butyl-4-methylphenol), BHA (mixed 2− and 3-tert-butyl-4-methoxyphenol), hydroquinone, and others were without effect at dose levels up to .5% in the diet. (III) Antioxidants protecting against liver necrosis: Di-tert-amyl-hydroquinone and Santoquin (6-ethoxy-1,2−dihydro − 2,2,4-trimethylquinoline) inhibited the deficiency strongly at .25% levels in the diet, while Santoflex B (6-phenyl-1,2-dihydro-2,2,4-trimethylquinoline, .05 to .25%) was slightly active. DPPD (N,N'-diphenyl-p-phenylenediamine, food grade) came close to Vit. E in activity. 5 mg % DPPD were approximately as effective as 1.25 mg % D,L-à-tocopheryl acetate.