Effect of Bioflavones upon Metabolism of Iodine and lodinated Compounds in the Rat. ∗

Abstract

Summary

Studies with bioflavones such as hesperidine methyl chalcone showed that these compounds are capable of altering the thyroidal accumulation of I¹³¹ and of diiodoI¹³¹-tyrosine. The intragastric administration of various amounts of H.M.C. caused an increased uptake of I¹³¹ or I¹³¹-tagged material by the thyroid and skin. A reduction in the I¹³¹ excreted was observed. When H.M.C. was administered subcutaneously, the excretion of I¹³¹ was even more markedly reduced. Studies with other bioflavones such as sodium hesperidine chalcone, eriodictin, and sodium rutin showed these compounds to effect iodine metabolism in the same manner as H.M.C. These studies suggest that the effects observed with H.M.C. upon iodine metabolism may be related to its epinephrine sparing action when present in small amounts. The administration of large amounts of H.M.C. depresses thyroidal accumulation of I¹³¹. Paper chromatograms indicate that larger amounts of H.M.C. in the body act as an iodide “trap” and thereby prevent the accumulation of I¹³¹ by the thyroid.