Anabolic steroid nandrolone augments hepatic regenerative response in rats

The success of recovery after liver resection depends on the regeneration and functions of the remnant liver. In this study we investigated whether liver regeneration was facilitated by nandrolone decaonate after two-thirds partial hepatectomy in rats. Study animals were pretreated with nandrolone (5 mg/kg), while control animals received a placebo. Animal were sacrificed at 12, 24, 48, and 72 hours. We compared the survival rates, liver function tests as well as the amount of apoptosis by terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated deoxyuridine-biotin nick end labeling assay, and regeneration, which was expressed as ratio of proliferating cell nuclear antigen and restoration ratio. A significant increase in hepatocyte regeneration at 24 and 48 hours in partially hepatectomized rats treated with nandrolone decaonate was observed compared to controls. This observation was confirmed by the significant acceleration of the liver restoration rate, which was 1/5 faster than in partially hepatectomized controls. The results of this study indicate that liver regeneration in rats treated with nandrolone show a prompt, faster regeneration after partial hepatectomy.