The impact of the decellularized implant on the histopathology and function of the recipient’s liver

Abstract

Background: Decellularized livers could provide an environment for liver-specific cell migration. Synthetic glucocorticoids induce liver development and hepatocyte differentiation as well as limit immune cell migration, which can both promote or inhibit fibrogenesis in the engineered liver. Although decellularized scaffolds provide a promising approach for liver regeneration, the effect of the implant on the donor's liver remained clear.

Objective: This study investigated the impact of the transplanted decellularized liver with/without prednisolone preloading on liver histopathology and functions.

Methods: Decellularized rat liver scaffolds were prepared by the perfusion method. After scaffolds characterization, they were grafted to partially hepatectomized rats in prednisolone-free and -loaded groups. After 2 and 4 weeks, the liver and grafts were removed and evaluated by Periodic acid Schiff staining and immunohistochemistry. Serological assessments were also performed on blood sera and compared with untreated control. The data were analyzed by ANOVA and LSD.

Results: Both grafts were invaded by hepatocytes. No histopathological symptom was detected in the recipient's liver; however, oval cells were observed within the epithelium of the bile duct and in the surrounding connective tissue. No significant variation was observed in the levels of alkaline phosphatase(ALP), but the levels of albumin and total protein were significantly reduced in both groups that received the grafts after two weeks; however, after four weeks, total protein and albumin reached the average level.

Conclusion: decellularized liver transplantation with/without the drug is safe enough for the recipient liver to be considered a promising technique in regenerative medicine.