Thiol antidotes effect on lipid peroxidation in mercury-poisoned rats

The effect of thiol antidotes 2,3-dimercapto-1-propanesulfonic acid (DMPS) and D-penicillamine (PA) on lipid peroxidation and on activities of some protecting enzymes in blood, liver and kidneys of mercury-poisoned rats has been studied. It has been found that Hg-poisoning is associated with increased lipid peroxidation in the liver and in the kidneys and with inactivation of superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase. Inhibition of SOD is caused by thiols treatment too, but in this case acceleration of lipid peroxidation has not been observed. Evidence is presented that in the liver, protection against mercury-induced lipid peroxidation is afforded by both thiols, while in the kidneys only PA has protective effect. In in vitro experiments it has been demonstrated that both antidotes can act as O2- scavengers and lipid peroxidation inhibitors, but PA is significantly more effective. On the basis of the obtained results a conclusion is drawn that in addition to the metal-removing ability, the antioxidant properties of the chelating agents may play an important role in manifestation of their beneficial effect in metal intoxications.