Background/aims: In this study, we explored the role of the Hedgehog signaling pathway in liver regeneration.
Methodology: Retrorsine, partial hepatectomy and combined were utilized in mature Fisher344 rats. Specific assays, such as RT-PCR, real-time PCR and immunohistochemistry were used to detect the constituents of the Hedgehog signaling pathway during liver regeneration.
Results: mRNA expression of Ihh, Ptc, Smo, Gli1, Gli2 and Gli3 were all shown in liver tissue homogenates in control/normal, retrorsine, partial hepatectomy and retrorsine/partial hepatectomy groups while no Shh expression was found. Real-time PCR analysis indicated that there were significant differences in Hedgehog signaling pathway-related constituents (Ihh, Ptc, Gli1 and Gli3) among the different treatment groups and at distinct time points in the same treatment group during liver regeneration. The data also suggested an interaction effect between different treatment and time to the variation of Ihh, Ptc, Gli1 and Gli3. The protein expression of Ptc and Gli1 in liver regeneration was confirmed by immunohistochemistry, which differed in the duration among different groups. Nevertheless, the protein expression of Ptc and Gli1 were not detected successfully by western blot.
Conclusions: It appears that the Hedgehog signaling pathway may be involved in liver regeneration.