PENTOXIFYLLINE AND THALIDOMIDE FAIL TO REDUCE HEPATIC STEATOSIS DURING TOTAL PARENTERAL-NUTRITION AND BOWEL REST IN THE RAT

Background: We suggested that the continuous translocation of endotoxi n from Gram-negative bacterial overgrowth during bowel rest and total parenteral nutrition (TPN) causes the release of tumor necrosis factor (TNF), resulting in Liver damage and hepatic dysfunction. Because TPN -induced hepatic steatosis was significantly reduced by the monoclonal antibodies against TNF, we attempted a more clinically applicable app roach using pentoxifylline and thalidomide. Methods: A control group ( group I) fed rat chow and four groups of rats receiving TPN were studi ed. Group II received TPN only; group III, TPN and 100 mg/kg/d pentoxi fylline; group IV, TPN and 200 mg/kg/d pentoxifylline; and group V, TP N and 5 mg/kg/d thalidomide. On day 7, total liver fat was determined. Results: Bowel rest and TPN resulted in a significant (p < .0005) inc rease in liver fat content that was unaltered by either pentoxifylline or thalidomide. Conclusions: Our results show no role for pentoxifyll ine or thalidomide in reducing TPN-associated hepatic steatosis.