Induction of benzo[a]pyrene hydroxylase in skin and liver by cutaneous application of jute batching oil.

Skin painting with 30 microliter of jute batching oil (JBO) for 8 days resulted in increased gross liver weight, microsomal protein content and benzo[alpha]pyrene hydroxylase activity of liver. Skin benzo[alpha]pyrene hydroxylase activity at the treated site increased by 10-fold. An investigation of cytochrome pigment status in liver and skin of treated animals showed a specific increase in P-448 level in both tissues. Single skin applications of JBO elevated the level of skin and liver benzo[alpha]pyrene hydroxylase activity to its maximum after 1 day and 2 days, respectively, which, in absence of further treatment with mineral oil, declined gradually to normal levels in due course. The results suggest that single or multiple cutaneous exposure(s) with JBO can increase carcinogen metabolising status of skin and liver which may be one of the causative factors for the tumorigenic effects of JBO in skin.