Locally synthesized HSP27 in hepatocytes: Is it possibly a novel strategy against human liver ischemia/reperfusion injury?

Abstract

Ischemia/reperfusion injury (IRI) is a common complication after liver surgery. Approximately 10% of grafts lose function in the early stage after liver transplantation. However, there is no effective way against IRI yet. Heat shock protein 27 (HSP27), a member of the heat shock protein families, is recognized as a protective factor against liver IRI recently. Studies showed that HSP27 can lessen the induction of proinflammatory messenger, reduce neutrophil infiltration, decrease apoptosis (caspase 3 fragmentation and DNA laddering), and reduce disruption of filamentous actin. In addition, Kupffer cells inhibitor- gadolinium chloride can reduce lipid peroxidation and promote hepatocytes regeneration. Herein, we hypothesize that transfecting liver with HSP27 gene accompanied by gadolinium chloride might be a potentially novel treatment against IRI. Compared to passive defense, we firstly suggest positive protection against ischemia/reperfusion injury by hepatocytes automatically.