Sequential changes of connexin32 and connexin26 in ischemia-reperfusion of the liver in rats.

ABSTRACT

Serial changes in expression of hepatic gap junction components, connexin32 and connexin26 expressions during ischemia (60 min)-reperfusion injury of the liver were evaluated by immunofluorescence staining and reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction in rats. Hepatic tissue calcium content and liver enzymes (aspartate aminotransferase, alanine aminotransferase, lactate dehydrogenase), were also examined. Connexin expressions were down-regulated during ischemia and steeply increased during the early reperfusion period. This upsurge in connexin was coincided with the augmentation in tissue calcium content level. And the mRNA levels of connexin changed in parallel with the connexin protein level until 60 min after reperfusion. Since it is known that the changes in intracellular Ca(2+) concentration controls the intercellular communication via gap junction, these findings suggest the possibility that gap junction may play a definitive role in reperfusion injury of the liver. Further studies may be necessary to clarify the exact role of connexins in hepatic ischemia-reperfusion injury.