Objective To explore the liver regeneration following partial liver transplantation. MethodsPartial liver transplantation in the rats were established, three experimental groups were: Ⅰ=control, partial liver resection; Ⅱ=orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT); Ⅲ=partial orthotopic liver transplantation (POLT). Liver function test, morphological investigations and liver regeneration were performed in different time after transplantation. The regenerative response of transplanted partial liver graft in rats were evaluated by Flow Cytometry and compared it to liver regeneration following resection.Results The serum concentrations of ALT, BILI increased in one week, but returned gradually to normal level within one month after transplantation. Large numbers of mononuclear cells infiltrating into the portal areas. Hepatocyte necrosis was observed on day 14 after transplantation. On day 30, the parenchyma cell showed a nearly normal appearance, bile duct proliferation was seen in portal areas. In addition, after liver resection and POLT some diploid hepatocytes were found. Dilation of the central veins, adjoining sinusoids and interlobar veins were seen in group Ⅲ. The partial liver graft is capable of regeneration similar to the situation following partial hepatectomy. The peak of liver regeneration was seen on day 1,2,4 following a hepatectomy and POLT and OLT, respectively.Conclusion The transplanted liver shows the same and/or enhanced regeneration compared to controls. There are several possible explanations for the slight delay in achieving the maximal regenerative response in rats undergoing the POLT and OLT. These may include damage that is induced by the operation itself, preservation, and reperfusion injuries. These suggest that this be caused by activation of the immune system and it might be related to the regulation of cytokines and hormone.
Citation： LI Xiangcheng,WANG Xuehao,YU Yue,et al.. Liver Regeneration Following Partial Orthotopic Liver Transplantation in the Rats. CHINESE JOURNAL OF BASES AND CLINICS IN GENERAL SURGERY, 2002, 9(4): 228-231. doi: Copy