VEGF improves liver regeneration and survival after 90% hepatectomy in a rat model of fatty liver disease

Aims: Fatty liver disease is a clinical problem leading to enhanced morbidity and mortality after major liver resection. Previous studies suggested that Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) and Erythropoietin (EPO) may improve liver regeneration in a model of 90% hepatectomy (PH). We investigated the role of these mediators after PH in animals with diet-induced steatosis. Methods: Male Wistar rats were fed high-fat prior to 90% PH. Animals were treated either with EPO, VEGF or NaCl on postoperative day 0, 1 and 3 and sacrificed 24h or 7d after PH. Rats receiving 90% PH without HFD were used as control group…