Induction of mixed-function oxidases in mouse liver by psoralens.

8-methoxypsoralen, the most widely used psoralen in photochemotherapy, was shown to induce mixed-function oxidases. Induction of mixed-function oxidases in mouse liver was examined after mice were given a single dose of one of three psoralens. 8-methoxypsoralen clearly induced p-nitroanisole O-demethylase and slightly induced aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase. Psoralen and 4,5',8-trimethylpsoralen failed to induce either enzyme. These results represent the first enzyme induction studies on these clinically useful compounds. The studies may have relevance in understanding the clinical differences in skin photosensitizing activity and photochemotherapeutic effectiveness of the compounds in such diseases as psoriasis and vitiligo.