Improvement in liver fibrosis, functionality and hemodynamics in CCl4-cirrhotic rats after injection of the Liver Growth Factor

Abstract Background/Aims: Most substances used in experimental models of cirrhosis are chosen either as protectors of lipid peroxidation, as antifibrogenic agents or as vitamins, among others. In this report, we analyze the improvement produced, in established cirrhosis (CCl 4 plus phenobarbital) in rats, by intraperitoneal injection of Liver Growth Factor, a hepatic mitogen with activity both in vivo and in vitro . Methods: Following confirmation of CCl 4 -induced cirrhosis, Liver Growth Factor (4.5 μg per rat×2 injections/week for 3 weeks) was administered to one group of rats (Cirr+LGF). The remaining rats (Cirr) received saline. The groups were compared in terms of serum enzymes, tissue damage, total liver collagen, collagenase activity, microsomal enzyme activities, splanchnic and systemic hemodynamics and portosystemic shunting. Results: Treatment of rats presenting CCl 4 -induced cirrhosis with Liver Growth Factor decreased serum aminotransferase levels and increased levels of serum albumin and total protein. The Liver collagen content was lower in rats treated with Liver Growth Factor (2.96 vs 4.32 mg/g liver, p p vs 9.4 mmHg, p vs 11.5%, p Conclusions: Administration of the hepatic mitogen, Liver Growth Factor, to CCl 4 -cirrhotic rats decreased liver collagen and reorganized the hepatic extracellular matrix, resulting in an improvement in liver function, reduced portal pressure and amelioration of ascites.