[Vascular endothelial growth factor C induces LYVE-1(+) endothelial cells to reconstruct hepatic sinusoid during...

To explore the candidate molecules and mechanism in the reconstruction of hepatic sinusoid after partial liver resection.

The reconstruction process of hepatic sinusoid after partial liver resection was observed using immunohistochemistry (IHC). The expressions of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A), VEGF-C, CD34, and lymphatic vessel endothelial hyaluronan receptor 1 (LYVE 1) were detected.

VEGF-C was expressed in the residual liver tissue after partial liver resection. The expression level reached its peak at 12 hours, 2 and 5 days after the operation. The expression of LYVE-1 was similar with VEGF-C, but its peak appeared 1-2 d later than that of VEGF-C. VEGF-A was expressed only in the early and late stages of liver regeneration. CD34 positive cells were gathered around the portal vein and its new branches.

VEGF-C induces CD34 positive cells to express LYVE-1 in the reconstruction of hepatic sinusoid, and the cells eventually differentiate into mature hepatic sinusoid endothelial cells.