Journal of investigative surgery : the official journal of the Academy of Surgical Research
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The aim of this study was to explore the complex role of endothelins (ETs) in hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury and to minimize this type of injury by nonselective ET receptor blockade. In an in vivo rat model, hepatic ischemia was induced for 30 min. The rats were divided into three groups: (1) sham operated, (2) untreated ischemic, and (3) group treated with the nonselective ET receptor antagonist bosentan (1 mg/kg body weight iv). ⋯ In conclusion the release of endothelins is combined with microcirculatory disturbances and local hypoxia, thereby causing liver damage. By protecting the liver microcirculation, ET receptor blockade of both receptors at a low dose increased blood and oxygen supply to the liver and reduced hepatocellular injury. These results constitute the bases for further studies and transfer into clinical practice.