Influence of 4,4'-(Isopropylidenedithio)bis(2,6-di-t-butylphenol) (DH-581) on Experimental Atherosclerosis in Rabbits

SummaryThe influence of orally administered 4,4'-(isopropylidenedithio)bis(2,6-di-t-butylphenol) (DH-581) on the development of cholesterol-induced atherosclerosis in rabbits has been investigated. When fed at a level of 0.3% to rabbits who are also being given a diet augmented with 2% cholesterol and 6% corn oil, DH-581 does not affect the course of the cholesterol-induced atherosclerosis. At this dietary level, however, DH-581 did cause reductions in liver triglycerides. When administered at a level of 1% of the atherogenic diet, DH-581 significantly lowers the severity of atheromata in the arch (p)<.05) and thoracic aorta (p<.01) of rabbits.These rabbits also showed consistently lower serum cholesterol and liver cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Serum triglyceride levels were variable.