Abstract

INTRODUCTION

In this study, the effects of sirolimus and tacrolimus on liver regeneration in rats with partial hepatectomy were compared in the absence or presence of the corticosteroids.

METHODS

Forty-eight male Sprague-Dawley rats (approximately 200-300 g) were randomly assigned to five groups. Each one underwent partial hepatectomy. 4 days after partial hepatectomy, sirolimus or tacrolimus in combination with or without corticosteroids (prednisolone) was intraperitoneally injected The rats were sacrificed at the end of four days, remnnat liver tissues were weighed and the weight index was created. Remnant liver tissues that stained with hematoxylin and eosin, were examined under a light microscope in terms of mitosis.

RESULTS

In the comparison of mitotic index and weight index, between the sirolimus group and tacrolimus group; sirolimus group had statistically significant effects. And between the sirolimus group and control group, there were no statiscally significant differences. But in the comparison of mitotic index and weight index, between the sirolimus+ steroids and control group, there were statitiscally significant differences.

DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION

Investigating the effects of sirolimus in combination with corticosteroids has become more important after liver segmental grafts transplantations. The suppression of regeneration could cause risks after liver transplantation especially in small volume grafts. On the other hand, this effect is thought to be useful in transplantations for hepatocellular carcinoma.