Effects of deletion variant of hepatocyte growth factor on reduced-size liver transplantation in rats

Background The deletion variant of hepatocyte growth factor (dHGF) exerts m itogenic and antifibrotic effects. The purpose of this study was to evaluat e the effect of dHGF on rats that had undergone syngeneic or allogeneic red uced-size (60%) orthotopic liver transplantation (ROLT). Methods. Starting immediately after the syngeneic (Lewis to Lewis) and allo geneic (Lewis to Brown Norway) BOLT, 500 mu g/kg dHGF was administered i.v. twice a day until the day the rats were killed. Its effect on hepatic graf t weight, regeneration, and biochemical parameters was evaluated. Results. dHGF promoted restoration of the liver volume and liver regenerati on as well as protein synthesis in the rats that under-event syngeneic BOLT . In the rats that underwent allogeneic BOLT, dHGF reduced the level of ser um cytosolic enzymes related to acute cellular rejection, but a significant improvement in liver regeneration and protein synthesis was not seen. When tacrolimus was administered to prevent rejection of the allogeneic grafts, the beneficial effect of dHGF was apparent, and was as beneficial as in sy ngeneic ROLT. Conclusions. Administering dHGF after liver transplantation augments the re generation and functional recovery of partial liver grafts and reduces hepa tocyte injury in acute cellular rejection.