Free radical mediated membrane perturbation and inhibition of TYPE-I iodothyronine 5'-monodeiodinase activity by lead and cadmium in rat liver homogenate

Abstract

The possible involvement of lipid peroxidation (LPO) in the lead (Pb) and cadmium (Cd) induced thyroid dysfunction with special reference to type-I iodothyronine 5'-monodeiodinase (5'-D) activity was studied in rat liver homogenate. Peroxidative reactions involving membrane components were found to be markedly stimulated by chronic administration of Pb and Cd in rats. Metal induced inhibition in 5'-D activity was also observed. Since LPO is primarily an outcome of free radical generation, we suggest metal induced free radical mediated inhibition of 5'-D activity in rat liver homogenate. In addition, serum triiodothyronine (T3) and thyroxine (T4) concentrations were also decreased by metals.