Possible effects of muramyl dipeptide on liver cell membranes.

Three different approaches were utilized for illustration of membranous effect of muramyl dipeptide (MDP) on liver cells. Toxicologic approach using a hepatoprotective effect against CCL4 as well as from previous results with other toxins. Histochemistry and microfluorometry after chemical injury. Biochemical as assessed by modulation of 14C palmitic acid incorporation under MDP effects in neutral lipids and phospholipids content of cell membranes. By this integrated study we may assume MDP played a role in one or more cell membrane(s). This assumption was supported by reduction of hepatocyte injury as assessed by enzyme analysis in serum or in the cells. Moreover, MDP pretreatment influenced the increase in the incorporation of labeled palmitic acid in neutral lipids and phospholipids. Microscopical image analysis and histochemical results supported the aforementioned findings.