Effect of the Ileum and Colon on Liver Regeneration

Abstract

Purpose The colon and ileum play significant roles on liver physiology. Studies about simultaneous hepatectomy and colectomy or enterectomy are scarce and controversial. We investigated and compared the effects of ileum and colon resection on liver regeneration. Materials and Methods Twenty four Wistar rats were allocated in group I-(sham), group II-70% hepatectomy; group III-70% hepatectomy + ileal resection, and group IV-70% hepatectomy + partial colectomy. On the sixth day, serum hepatic enzymes, albumin, hepatocyte growth-factor (HGF) and transforming growth factor-alpha (TGF-α) were measured. The hepatic regeneration rate was estimated. Ki-67 immunohistochemical analysis was done in remnant liver. Results Hepatic enzymes levels were significantly higher in group III rats comparing to the other groups (p 0.05). Cytokines HGF and TGF-α levels in group IV were significantly higher than in the other groups (p 0.05). Conclusion Ileum and colon resection have different effects on liver regeneration. Colon resection positively influences liver regeneration, while ileum resection negatively influences the regenerative process, in a rat model.

Keywords

• liver
• regeneration
• ileum
• colectomy
• hepatectomy
• rats