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ACTIVITIES OF NA+ K+-ATPASE IN THE LIVER OF NORMAL AND PROTEIN UNDERNOURISHED RATS FED WITH DIET CONTAINING COCONUT OIL

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

Na+/K+-ATPase is a crucial enzyme involved in maintaining cellular ion homeostasis and is particularly vital for the proper functioning of energy-demanding tissues such as the liver. It actively transports sodium ions (Na+) out of the cell while simultaneously pumping potassium ions (K+) into the cell, contributing to the establishment and maintenance of the transmembrane ion gradients essential for numerous cellular processes, including cell volume regulation, electrical excitability, and secondary active transport of nutrients and other ions.

Diet plays a fundamental role in modulating the activity and expression of Na+/K+-ATPase. Various dietary factors, such as fatty acids, protein content, and specific compounds, have been reported to influence the activity and function of this enzyme in different tissues. Among these factors, coconut oil has received considerable attention due to its unique composition of medium-chain fatty acids (MCFAs) and potential health benefits.

Coconut oil is a natural source of MCFAs, primarily lauric acid (C12:0) and capric acid (C10:0), which have distinct physicochemical properties compared to long-chain fatty acids (LCFAs). MCFAs are rapidly absorbed and metabolized, providing a quick energy source. Previous studies have reported various health-promoting effects of coconut oil, including antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. However, its impact on the activities of Na+/K+-ATPase in the liver, especially under conditions of protein undernutrition, remains poorly understood.

Protein undernutrition, a condition characterized by inadequate protein intake, can lead to impaired liver function and altered cellular metabolism. It is associated with reduced energy availability and alterations in various enzymatic activities involved in nutrient metabolism and ion transport. The liver, being a vital organ for protein metabolism and detoxification, is highly susceptible to the adverse effects of protein undernutrition. Thus, exploring the potential effects of coconut oil supplementation on Na+/K+-ATPase activity in the liver of protein undernourished animals becomes crucial.

Understanding the influence of coconut oil on the activities of Na+/K+-ATPase in the liver could provide valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying its potential benefits in liver health and function. Furthermore, investigating the interaction between coconut oil and protein undernutrition could shed light on whether coconut oil supplementation can ameliorate the adverse effects of protein undernutrition on liver enzyme activities.

Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the activities of Na+/K+-ATPase in the liver of normal and protein undernourished rats fed with a diet containing coconut oil. By comparing the activities of Na+/K+-ATPase in the liver of rats fed with and without coconut oil under normal and protein undernourished conditions, we sought to evaluate the impact of coconut oil