A Moderate Form of Hyperhomocysteinemia Is Accompanied by Polyploidization of Hepatocytes

Abstract

The aim of research is to find out the effect of hyperhomocysteinemia on the regenerative process of liver cells. The histological structure of the liver was studied in Rattus norvegicus Berk white rats (n=25) (control group - 10 animals, comparison group with moderate hyperhomocysteinemia - 15 animals). On histological sections stained with hematoxylin and eosin, the following were calculated: the number of nuclei, the proportion of binuclear cells, the area and the diameter of the nucleus; the nuclear cytoplasmic index was calculated. With the use of immunohistochemical stain by antibodies to detect the expression of the Ki-67 marker (rabbit IgG, 1:200; Cell Marque Corporation, USA), the number and intensity of expression of Ki-67-positive cells in the field of view of the microscope were determined. In the liver of animals with moderate hyperhomocysteinemia, the presence of two processes was revealed at the same time. It is reactive-dystrophic (the presence of periportal leukocyte-lymphocyte infiltrates, the appearance of cells in a state of dystrophy and necrosis) and regenerative (an increase in the core area from 52,51±4,5 to 56,68±5,58 µm, nuclear-cytoplasmic ratio, an increase in the number and intensity of Ki-67+cells expression). The presence of hepatocytes with very large nuclei (polyploid), which make up 12,5 % of the entire population is characteristic of homocysteine-induced liver pathology. Hyperhomocysteinemia, along with a decrease in the number and dystrophy of individual hepatocytes, leads to an increase in the diameter and area of the cell nucleus, an increase in the intensity of proliferation, the appearance of polyploid nuclei, which increases the regenerative potential of the liver and provides a crucial role in the homeostasis of the gland. The findings require further research to determine the "critical point" of transition, which will allow modulation of liver tissue function.