Role of transforming growth factor beta 1 on hepatic regeneration and apoptosis in liver diseases.

Abstract

TGF-beta 1 plays a role in the arrest of liver cell regeneration and atypical bile duct proliferation, and in areas of rapidly progressing atypical bile duct proliferation, such as in fulminant hepatitis or bile retention. Apoptosis appears to be induced by TGF-beta 1. This phenomenon may account for the inadequate hepatic regeneration that occurs with liver disease.