Lipocalin-2 gene expression during liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy in rats

BackgroundLipocalin-2 (Lcn2) is related to cell proliferation. We studied Lcn2 gene expression during liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy (PH).MethodsMale Wistar rats were sacrificed before and 2, 4, 6, 12, 24, 72 h, 7 days after 70% or 40% PH. The remnant liver weight/body weight (RLW/BW) ratio, Lcn2 gene and mRNA expression in the remnant livers were measured. Hepatocytes and nonparenchymal cells were isolated from the remnant livers. Expression of Lcn2 related protein was detected by Western blot.ResultsThe RLW/BW ratio increased to nearly 90% of the original liver 72 h after PH. Lcn2 gene expression showed upward curves from 4 to 72 h after PH in both 70% and 40% PH rats and peaked at 12 h (8 times vs 0 h). Lcn2 mRNA expression showed parallel upward curves from 2 to 72 h. The peak was significantly higher in 70% PH rats (27 times vs 0 h) than in 40% PH rats (25 times vs 0 h) 12 h after PH (p < 0.05). Lcn2 related protein in the isolated liver cells was markedly enhanced 24 h after PH, more in hepatocytes than in nonparenchymal cells.ConclusionThe expressions of Lcn2 gene and mRNA, and its related protein increased markedly after PH. Lcn2 might be important in the genetic regulation of liver regeneration after PH.