Incorporation of [14C]-L-leucine in splenic and hepatic tissue of rats "chemically splenectomized" by ethyl palmitate.

In experiments with "chemically splenectomized" rats by an i.v. application of ethyl palmitate (EP) emulsion and using [14C]-L-leucine, the protein synthesis in spleen and liver was followed. Two hours following EP application protein synthesis in the spleen was significantly decreased; after 24 hrs and 4 days the incorporation increased moderately above normal values, and in the subsequent intervals protein synthesis was again lowered. In the liver a significant increase of protein synthesis 24 hrs and 4 days after EP injection was observed. Changes of proteins synthesis in the spleen are evidently related to damage of the tissue and its subsequent regeneration. Changes in the liver are manifestations rather of an increased metabolic load during EP degradation.