The present study attempted to observe the protective effects of tungsten (W) on hepatic injury induced by endotoxic (ET) shock in rats and to study its mechanisms. 28 male Wistar rats were randomly divided into 3 groups: (1) ET group (n=11): a bolus injection of disintegrated E. Coli (5?4?10~(10) organisms/kg); (2) ET+W group: (n=11) an equivalent E. Coli was given after being pretreated with sodium tungstate rich food and water for 3-4 weeks; (3) Control group (n=6): NS. The results showed that pretreatment with W significantly attenuated the decrease of BP, total count of WBC and% of PMN, and increased the survival rate. In ET+W group, Plasma level of malondialdehydc decreased; activity of XO in hepatic tissue also decreased; the ratio of W/Mo increased, the serum GPT level decreased (P