Sympathetic Nerves Do Not Affect Experimental Ischemia-Reperfusion Injury of Rat Liver

Background

We investigated whether sympathetic, noradrenergic nerves participate in experimental acute ischemia-reperfusion injury of the rat liver.

Methods

Female Wistar rats (200-250 g body weight) were anesthetized with pentobarbital. After tracheotomy, we cannulated a carotid artery and jugular vein. The rats were divided in 2 groups (n = 8 per group). The control group received NaCl IV and the test group received the sympatholytic agent, guanethidine (3 mg/kg, IV). After 30 minutes of drug equilibration, laparotomy was performed to arrange the liver for temporary occlusion (by a ligature) of its vascular supply, corresponding with 70% reduction in hepatic blood flow. The rats were then allowed 60 minutes of equilibration. Thereafter, regional ischemia was induced for 30 minutes. The animals were then monitored for 2 hours of reperfusion. Blood samples for alanine aminotransferase (ALT) estimation (as a measure of injury to the parenchyma) were drawn immediately before ischemia, as well as 60 and 120 minutes after reperfusion. Readings of mean arterial pressure were taken during these times.

Results

After 2 hours of reperfusion, there were no significant differences between the groups with regard to ALT or mean arterial pressure.

Conclusion

Sympathetic, noradrenergic nerves did not affect experimental ischemia-reperfusion injury of rat liver in the current model.