Pulse Analysis as a Possible Real-Time Biomarker Complementary to SGPT and SGOT for Monitoring Acute Hepatotoxicity.

Based on the resonance theory, the pressure wave of the arterial system could reflect the physical condition of the internal organs. Experimental evidence indicates that the physical condition of organs is related to various Fourier components of the pressure pulse. We have proved that the first harmonic of the pressure-wave spectrum is closely related to the liver. In this study, Wistar rats given massive doses of acetaminophen were examined. The amplitude of the first harmonic of the blood pressure pulse, A1, was analyzed and correlated with the blood liver function indexes that examine serum glutamate pyruvate transaminase (SGPT) and serum glutamic oxaloacetic transaminase (SGOT). When A1 was below 3650 and SGPT was above 90, the kappa value was about 0.6; the probability is greater than. 999 based on a chi-square test. When A1 was below 3650 and SGOT was above 380, the kappa value was around 0.5; the probability is greater than. 999. Our results indicate that A1 may be used as a simple, real-time biomarker that is complementary to the commonly used first-line liver indicators, SGPT and SGOT levels, for monitoring acute hepatotoxicity. It promises a noninvasive, real-time liver-function monitoring method.