Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of Met–RANTES on the viability of hepatocytes in an experimental controlled non-heart beating donor models in rats, and also to determine the usefulness of these grafts. Material and Method: Thirty Wistar-Albino rats weighing between 225 and 290 g were used in this study, and were divided into two groups (study and control) of 10 rats each. Cardiac arrest was performed by intracardiac KCl injection (0.2 mL). The interval between the cessation of cardiac activity and organ retrieval was 30 minutes. Before the cessation of cardiac activity, 0.1 mL heparin was administered subcutaneously to each rat. 0.05 mL saline was given to the control group and 1 g/kg Met-RANTES was given to the study group 2 hours before cardiac arrest. Subsequently, a suitable catheter (3.5 French) was inserted into the portal vein. Liver grafts were washed out with 50 mL Euro Collins solution via the portal vein catheter. Liver grafts, which were dissected totally, were reperfused for 60 minutes with HTK solution using a circulator system. AST and ALT levels were measured in the perfusion fluid. Results: AST and ALT levels were significantly lower in the Met-RANTES group (P<0.05).Conclusion: Met-RANTES increases the biochemical viability of hepatocytes in an experimental non-heart beating donor model in rats.