A correlation of induced mixed-function oxidase specific activity to C-H bond strengths in partially chlorinated monocyclic hydrocarbons.

The nature of structure-function relationships between the mixed-function oxidase (MFO) system and certain chemically related xenobiotics has been studied. The total hepatic induction index has been modified and used to investigate whether the induction of hepatic MFO is primarily a response to molecular shape (entropic) or to the strength of specific carbon-hydrogen bond strength (enthalpic). Using both Sprague-Dawley male rats and ring doves (Streptopelia risoria) and testing with benzene, 1,2,4-trichlorobenzene, cyclohexane and gamma-1,2,3,4,5,6-hexachlorocyclohexane as both inducers and substrates, a response of the MFO system to substrate C-H bond strength has been found.