Suppression of the hepatic microsomal cytochrome P-450 dependent mixed function oxidase activities in golden hamster during Leishmania donovani infection.

Experimental infection of golden hamsters with Leishmania donovani caused significant alterations in the hepatic microsomal mixed function oxidase system. Gross examination of liver indicated hepatomegaly. Microsomal protein contents were only marginally elevated. Cytochrome P-450 as well as haem contents were significantly decreased and it directly correlated with the degree of infection. Cytochrome b5 exhibited elevation at lower degrees of infection which came down to control levels at the peak infection. Concomitant suppression was also noticed in cytochrome P-450 dependent monooxygenase activities, viz. aniline hydroxylase, benzo[a]pyrene hydroxylase and aminopyrine N-demethylase. No significant change was observed in NADH-cytochrome b5 reductase and NADPH-cytochrome c reductase. The results indicate suppression of hepatic microsomal MFO activities during visceral leishmaniasis.