Blockade of the renin-angiotensin system improves the early stages of liver regeneration and liver function

Abstract

Background: Partial hepatectomy is the preferred option for selected patients with colorectal cancer liver metastases (CRCLM). Sufficient liver regeneration (LR) is essential for a successful outcome in these patients. The blockade of the renin-angiotensin system (RAS) reduces the growth of several tumor types. The RAS also acts as a regulator of liver fibrosis and potentially LR. The angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, captopril, significantly inhibits the growth of CRCLM, but its effect on LR remains undefined. Methods: After 70% of partial hepatectomy, mice were randomly assigned to control or captopril-treated groups. LR was measured by liver-to-body weight ratio on days 1, 2,..