Effects of aflatoxin B1 on liver microsomal enzymes in different strains of chickens.

Administration of Aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) with safflower seed oil to hubbard chickens caused a significant increase in liver microsomal protein, electron transport components, and drug metabolizing enzymes. No alteration was observed in the activity of alanine and aspartate aminotransferases. AFB1 treatment with dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO) as a vehicle caused a significant decrease in electron transport components, drug metabolizing enzymes, and a significant increase in the activity of aspartate aminotransferase. Higher inhibition was observed at 1.5 mg/kg dose level of AFB1. Inhibition by AFB1 was maximal after 24 hr of treatment and decreased thereafter. AFB1 treatment with DMSO caused no significant change in electron transport components and drug metabolizing enzymes in Rhode Red Island (RRI) strain. Vancob male chickens showed significant decrease in electron transport components and drug metabolizing enzymes, while a significant increase was observed in vancob females. Results suggest that the effects of AFB1 depend on treatment vehicle, strain and sex of chickens.