Folinic Acid Potentiates the Liver Regeneration Process after Selective Portal Vein Ligation in Rats

Abstract

Liver resection remains the gold standard for hepatic metastases. The future liver remnant (FLR) and its functional status are two key points to consider before performing major liver resections, since patients with less than 25% FLR or a Child–Pugh B or C grade are not eligible for this procedure. Folinic acid (FA) is an essential agent in cell replication processes. Herein, we analyze the effect of FA as an enhancer of liver regeneration after selective portal vein ligation (PVL). Sixty-four male WAG/RijHsd rats were randomly distributed into eight groups: a control group and seven subjected to 50% PVL, by ligation of left portal branch. The treated animals received FA (2.5 m/kg), while the rest were given saline. After 36 h, 3 days or 7 days, liver tissue and blood samples were obtained. FA slightly but significantly increased FLR percentage (FLR%) on the 7th day (91.88 ± 0.61%) compared to control or saline-treated groups (86.72 ± 2.5 vs. 87 ± 3.33%; p < 0.01). The hepatocyte nuclear area was also increased both at 36 h and 7days with FA (61.55 ± 16.09 µm2, and 49.91 ± 15.38 µm2; p < 0.001). Finally, FA also improved liver function. In conclusion, FA has boosted liver regeneration assessed by FLR%, nuclear area size and restoration of liver function after PVL.

Liver Cancer: Improving Standard Diagnosis and Therapy

“…SOCS protein negatively regulates cytokine signaling related to cell proliferation, cell growth, insulin signaling, and immune response, and whether it can be a treatment target for HCC or chronic liver disease should be evaluated in future studies. Additionally, Gutiérrez Sáenz de Santa María et al investigated the role of folic acid in liver regeneration and presented a possible role in patients undergoing hepatectomy [ 15 ].…”