Effect of lead acetate and carbon particles on the expression of glutathione S-transferase YfYf in rat liver.

Administration of intracardiac lead acetate produces a complex response in glutathione S-transferase (GST) YfYf expression in rat liver. The earliest response, an elevation of GST expression in Kupffer cells, can be mimicked by administering a suspension of carbon particles. The second effect of lead acetate administration is a marked elevation of GST YfYf in some but not all hepatocytes (the 'patchy' response). This effect is most marked 48-76 h after administration of a single dose of lead acetate and is easily detected by immunoblotting. Dexamethasone down-regulates the lead response in hepatocytes.