Further data supporting machine perfusion ability to preserve steatotic rat livers: Role of kupffer and biliary epithelial cells

Abstract

Cold storage is unsuitable to preserve steatotic livers, frequently resulting in primary graft nonfunction. An increased release of TNF-alfa and an impaired bile secretory function have been proposed as factors involved in cold preservation-induced damage. We tested whether rat liver preservation, performed by MP at 20°C, can enhance the functional integrity of steatotic livers versus simple cold storage. We also compared MP at 20°C with hypothermic MP at 8°C. Obese male Zucker rats were used as liver donors.