Minimal Biotransformation and Toxicity of Desflurane in Guinea Pig Liver Slices

Biotransformation and hepatotoxicity of desflurane were evaluated in the guinea pig liver slice culture system. Liver slices (250–300 μm) were prepared from 600—650-g male Hartley guinea pigs. The slices were incubated in sealed vials in a Krebs-Henseleit buffer at 37oC under 95% O2. Desflurane was vaporized to produce media concentrations of 0.7—2.3 mM. After incubation (3–24 h) viability of the slices was determined (K+ content; protein synthesis/ secretion) along with the biotransformation of desflurane (F−). Isoflurane (2.3 mM) was included in the studies for comparative purposes. Although desflurane caused a mild concentration-related reduction in slice K+ content (1.1–2.2 mM; 20%—40% of control), the effects were less than those produced by 2.3 mM isoflurane (50% of control). High concentrations of desflurane decreased protein synthesis at the first 9 h of incubation, and isoflurane decreased protein synthesis throughout the incubation period. Neither anesthetic affected protein secretion. The biotransformation of desflurane was minimal with threefold less F− produced from desflurane than isoflurane.