Induced expression of CYP2A5 in inflamed trematode-infested mouse liver

Trematode infections have long been associated with specific types of cance r. We investigated the ability of the liver fluke Fasciola hepatica to alte r host enzymes in a manner that might provide insight into the phenomenon o f biologically associated cancers. Our data demonstrate an increased activi ty of the CYP2A5 isozyme in male mouse liver infected with F.hepatica. Indu ction of this enzyme was further assessed immunohistochemically. The infect ion affected CYP2A5 distribution in hepatic tissue. Inflammation and prolif eration in liver tissue were observed at the same time that CYP2A5 activity increased. This enzyme is known to participate in the metabolism of severa l carcinogens which are commnon contaminants in environments of developing countries where parasitic infections may be prevalent.