[Histoenzymatic study of the liver and submandibular gland of rats exposed to sodium fluoride in drinking water].

PURPOSE

Universal use of fluorine compounds in dentistry, as well as industrial and civilization-related exposures may produce undesirable effects of fluorine action. The effects of fluoride ions depend on the dose and exposure time. Some may be positive, e.g. in caries prevention, while others are harmful when optimal prophylactic or therapeutic doses have been surpassed. The literature is replete with reports on interactions of fluoride ions with the activity of many enzymes and indirectly with cellular metabolism.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The paper presents the results of a histoenzymatic study of the liver and submandibular gland of young rats exposed to NaF administered in drinking water. The intensity of staining for lactate dehydrogenase, succinate dehydrogenase, acid and alkaline phosphatase was evaluated.

RESULTS

The reaction to succinate dehydrogenase in the submandibular gland and lactate dehydrogenase in hepatocytes was attenuated, while the reaction to acid phosphatase was enhanced in the liver when rats were exposed to 32.0 mg NaF/dm(3) of drinking water.