Influence of methionine and zinc on liver collagen in molybdenotic rats: relationship with lipid peroxidation.

Protective effects of methionine and zinc on collagenesis in the liver of molybdenotic rats have been studied during present investigations. Further, the relationship between two important pathobiological phenomena (viz. lipid peroxidation and collagenesis) has also been examined. Biological observations suggest that cotreatment with methionine only improves the growth of molybdenotic rats; however, the hepatosomatic index improved in rats supplemented with both methionine and zinc. Administration of methionine and zinc to molybdenum-fed rats decreased liver collagen. Results on urinary hydroxyproline support these observations. Lipid peroxidation was also inhibited in the liver of protected rats. We suggest that collagenesis can be controlled by inhibiting the generation of reactive oxygen species. An improvement in liver function in rats protected with methionine and zinc has also been suggested.