Orally administered prostaglandin E1 derivative can enhance liver regeneration in partially hepatectomized rats.

The effect of orally administered 17(S),20-dimethyl-6-oxo prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) methyl ester (OP) on liver regeneration was examined in 66% hepatectomized rats. Administration of OP increased the mitotic index of the hepatocyte 3 days after hepatectomy, and the mitotic index response due to OP was dose dependent. The OP administration had no effect on food intake, but reduced water intake. The serum scores relative to nutrition and hepatic function showed transient change after OP administration, whereas the serum blood urea nitrogen level indicated a slight renal dysfunction with OP. The fat store in the body was transiently reduced. These observations lead us to conclude that orally administered OP is capable of stimulating liver regeneration without serious systemic effects.