Abstract

Gastrin has been demonstrated to be an important trophic hormone for the mucosa of the stomach and small in testine. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of gastrin on liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy in rats. Rats which underwent 70% hepatectomy were assigned into four groups. Group 1 and 2 received pentagastrin 300 (g/kg three times daily after hepatectomy. Rats in group 1 and 2 underwent remnant hepatectomy and were sacrificed after 48 hours and 96 hours, respectively. Group 3 and 4 received isotonic saline as control groups. Rats in Group 3 and 4 underwent remnant hepatectomy after 48 hours and 96 hours, respectively. Administration of pentagostrin after hepatectomy significantly increased mitosis and AgNOR counts. In conclusion gastrin has hepatotrophic effect on hepatic regeneration after partial hepatectomy.