Changes in the level of erythrocyte phosphorylated compounds in patients with hepatic encephalopathy
Morelli, A.; Narducci, F.; Pelli, M.A.; Floridi, M.; Floridi, A.
Archivio Per le Scienze Mediche 135(1): 9-14
1978
ISSN/ISBN: 0004-0312 PMID: 637681 Document Number: 130030
Automated ion exchange chromatography was used to compare red cell phosphorylates in clinically healthy subjects and 6 patients with hepatic encephalopathy. Significant changes in the distribution of these compounds were noted, including a marked increase in total acid-soluble content (particularly 2.3 DPG, R5P, 3MPG and G16DP) and a sharp fall in ATP. Increased 2.3 DPG explained the rightward shift of the haemoglobin dissociation curve seen in cirrhosis of the liver, but does not seem to fit in with enhanced blood ammonia. Deep-seated changes in red cell energy metabolism may have the same pathogenesis as the CNS metabolic change observed in hepatic encephalopathy.