The roles of Kupffer cells in hepatic dysfunction induced by ischemia/reperfusion in rats

This study examined the role of Kupffer cells in altering the hepatic secretory and microsomal function during ischemia and reperfusion (Is/Rp). Rats were subjected to 60 min of hepatic ischemia, followed by 1 and 5 h of reperfusion. Gadolinium chloride (GdCl3, 7.5 mg/kg body weight, intravenously) was used to inactivate the Kupffer cells 1 day prior to ischemia. Is/Rp markedly increased the serum aminotransferase level and the extent of lipid peroxidation. GdCl3 significantly attenuated these increases. Is/Rp markedly decreased the bile flow and cholate output, and GdCl3 restored their secretion. The cytochrome P450 content was decreased by Is/Rp. However, these decreases were not prevented by GdCl3. The aminopyrine N-demethylase activity was decreased by Is/Rp, while the aniline p-hydroxylase activity was increased. GdCl3 prevented the increase in the aniline p-hydroxylase activity. Overall, Is/Rp diminishes the hepatic secretory and microsomal drug-metabolizing functions, and Kupffer cells are involved in this hepatobiliary dysfunction.