Journal of cellular biochemistry
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Serine-threonine protein kinase glycogen synthase kinase (GSK)-3 is involved in regulation of many cell functions, but its role in regulating liver regeneration is unknown. Here we investigated the effects of GSK-3beta inhibition on liver regeneration after partial hepatectomy in the rat. The potent and selective GSK-3beta inhibitor SB216763 (0.6 mg/kg intravenously) or vehicle (10% dimethyl sulfoxide) was administered 30 min before 70% partial hepatectomy. ⋯ Moreover, the injection of SB216763 impaired the proliferation cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) index and increased the apoptosis of liver compared to the vehicle. GSK-3beta plays an important role in rat liver regeneration. We conclude it may partially result from the inhibition of the NF-kappaB pathway and enhancement of p21 (WAF1/Cip1) expression.