Precision‐Cut Tissue Slices: A SuitableIn VitroSystem for the Study of the Induction of Drug‐Metabolizing Enzyme Systems

Abstract

Most xenobiotic‐metabolising enzyme systems, and in particular the cytochromes P450, may be markedly up‐regulated following exposure to inducing agents. A rise in activity of these enzyme systems may lead to drug interactions with adverse or even fatal outcomes. Furthermore, modulation of these enzyme systems may bring about a profound change in an individual's susceptibility to a chemical toxin. The use of precision‐cut tissue slices as an in vitro system allows the rapid and facile investigation of the potential of a chemical to induce cytochrome P450 and other xenobiotic‐metabolising enzymes in different animal species, as well as in humans. Various tissues (e.g. liver, lung, intestine) can be used, and the effect of chemicals investigated in a concentration‐dependent manner, and employing a number of endpoints.