Rat liver regeneration after 90% partial hepatectomy.

In previous studies, 90% partial hepatectomy in the rat was invariably accompanied by 100% mortality within 40 hr. This paper describes a technique by which 90% of the liver mass can be removed with only 14% mortality, provided that rats have free access to glucose-containing drinking water. Measurements of total liver DNA, [3H]thymidine labeling index and mitotic index suggest rapid cell proliferation, commensurate with a powerful regenerative stimulus. In the presence of normoglycemia, peripheral insulin and glucagon concentrations were elevated to levels normally observed in the portal vein.