Developmental changes in the conversion rates of di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate to monoethylhexyl phthalate in rats.

The activities of liver, lung, and kidney of rats of various age groups and that of placenta in hydrolyzing di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate to mono(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate have been measured. Male and female rats of 45 d of age, neonatal rats within 12 h of parturition, and fetuses and placenta on d 19 of gestation were used. The liver was most active in all age groups; however, the lung and the kidney also had considerable activity. The tissues of the fetuses and the neonate had significant activity. The Km values of the enzyme were 4 mM in the neonatal liver and 5.9 mM in the adult liver.