Relaxin as an Additional Protective Substance in Preserving and Reperfusion Solution for Liver Transplantation, Shown in a Model of Isolated Perfused Rat Liver

Abstract

Reperfusion injury is a problem in organ transplantation. Relaxin causes vessel dilation and inhibition of platelet and mast cell activation. The study investigates the protective effect of relaxin on liver tissue against cell damage during organ preservation and reperfusion. Liver transplantation was simulated in a model of isolated perfused rat liver. Relaxin was applicated during reperfusion and/or preservation. To quantify cell damage, we examined the perfusate for malonyldialdehyde (MDA) and myeloperoxidase activity (MPO), and liver tissue underwent immunohistochemical study. Relaxin as an additional substance in preserving/reperfusion solution decreases MPO and MDA levels in the perfusate and immunohistochemical study. Relaxin seems to have a protective effect against cell damage in ischemia and reperfusion injury.