Expression of Endothelin Receptors Gene in Human Cirrhosis:Relationship with Splanchnic Hemodynamics

Objective To assess the correlation likely exists in increased portal pressure (Pp),portal blood flow quantity(Qp)and ET A and ET B receptor mRNA expression in human cirrhosis.Methods The study included 25 subjects(17 men and 8 women),diagnosed as cirrhosis( n =15) and as traumatic liver injury( n =10).In situ hybridization and reverse transcription polymerase chain reactions(RT PCR) were performed to determine the expression of ET A and ET B receptor mRNA in liver tissues from both traumatic and cirrhotic patients whose hepatic hemodynamic values were measured.Results Both expressions of the two transcripts were significantly higher in cirrhotic patients than those in traumatic subjects.There was a direct relationship between mRNA levels of ET A and ET B receptor and the levels of Pp and Qp in cirrhotic patients.Conclusion Liver paracrine endothelin system may be overactivated in human cirrhosis accompanied with increased expression of ET A and ET B receptor mRNA.It also shows that a direct relationship exists between endothelin receptor mRNA levels and the degree of portal hypertension in these patients.ET A and ET B receptor may play an important role in the pathogenesis and maintenance of splanchnic hyperdynamics.