EFFECT OF SPLANCHNIC VISCERA REMOVAL UPON CANINE LIVER-REGENERATION

Abstract

The influence of portal blood factors on canine liver regeneration was studied with graded non-hepatic splanchnic evisceration, coupled with 44 and 72% hepatectomies. In one type of experiment, the pancreas was retained while the rest of the intra-abdominal gastrointestinal tract was removed. In a 2nd variety, total pancreatectomy was performed with preservation of the intra-abdominal organs. In a 3rd kind of experiment, total nonhepatic splanchnic evisceration was performed. Liver regeneration after hepatectomy was decreased by all 3 kinds of viscera removed as judged by DNA synthesis, autoradiography and mitotic index. Pancreatectomy and nonpancreatic splanchnic evisceration caused almost equal decreases in the regenerative response. Total nonhepatic splanchnic evisceration essentially halted regeneration during the first 3 postoperative days and intraportal infusions of insulin, glucagon or both together did not reverse this effect. The decrease in liver membrane bound adenylate cyclase activity and biphasic change in liver cyclic [c] AMP concentrations normally seen after partial hepatectomy were disrupted after the various eviscerations. Adenylate cyclase activity and cAMP concentrations tended to be higher than normal in the eviscerated dogs. Control of liver regeneration apparently is by multiple factors. Pancreatic hormones are important modifiers of this response but do not exercise exclusive control. Other substances of gastrointestinal origin including hormones and nutrient supply apparently play important specific roles. The volume of portal flow is a secondary and nonspecific but possibly significant factor.