Role of VEGFA in type 2 diabetes mellitus rats subjected to partial hepatectomy

Abstract

The crucial role of vascular endothelial growth Factor A (VEGFA) in healthy rat livers undergoing partial hepatectomy under vascular occlusion (PH + I/R) has been demonstrated. This study evaluates whether this observation can be extrapolated to the presence of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). VEGFA was pharmacologically modulated and its effects during liver surgery were evaluated. Exogenous VEGFA exacerbated necrosis, with no changes in inflammation, apoptosis, or regeneration compared to PH + I/R. Endogenous VEGFA inhibition led to damage and inflammation similar to PH + I/R but promoted regeneration via PI3K/AKT. VEGFA did not affect hepatic VEGFB. VEGFB administration increased necrosis without affecting apoptosis or regeneration. Low hepatic VEGFA and VEGFB in PH + I/R may be influenced by intestine and adipose tissue. Detrimental effects of exogenous VEGFA could be due to exacerbated hepatic necrosis, while endogenous VEGFA inhibition improved regeneration via PI3K/AKT. Therefore, endogenous VEGFA inhibition is a protective strategy promoting liver regeneration in PH + I/R with T2DM.