Gene therapy for hepatic fibrosis with hepatocyte growth factor mediated by recombinant adenovirus vector

Objective:To assess the reversing effect of hepatocyte growth factor(HGF) on DMN-induced hepatic fibrosis in rats.Methods: A hepatic fibrosis model was established by DMN in Wistar rat,and a total of 12 rats were randomly divided into 2 groups: ①therapy group,in which 8.6×10~9 pfu of Ad-HGF was injected into tail vein;②control group,in which same dose of Ad-GFP was administered.On day 40,blood samples were obtained from the rat hearts,and the serum GTP,GOT,TP and TBil levels were measured.After the rats were sacrificed, liver biopsies were performed,and the liver tissues obtained were examined by light microscope. Results: In therapy group,the liver function was improved partially in some rats,and the degrees of hepatic damage and hepatic fibrosis were significantly milder than those in control group.Both binuclear and mitotic hepatocytes were observed in therapy group.Conclusion: The HGF may be a useful factor for the gene therapy of hepatic fibrosis in rats.