Introduction: Hepatic ischemia reperfusion injury (IRI) takes place through liver transplantation. Hepatic IRI might seriously affect liver function and is reported to be accountable for 15 % of organ failure and could result in multi-organ dysfunction syndrome (MODS) that lead to high rates of morbidity and mortality. L-arginine (L-Arg) could reduce hepatic IRI via different mechanisms
Objective: To estimate the effect of hepatic ischemic reperfusion (I/R) and the possible protective effect of L-Arg. on the adrenal cortex.
Materials and Methods: Thirty two albino rats were utilized in the current work. The animals split to Sham-Operation, L-Arg, ischemic reperfusion, I/R group and I/R and L-Arg group. Then, at the assigned time, blood samples were assembled for biochemical study. Histological and immunohistochemical studies were performed on the adrenal tissue.
Results: The adrenal cortex of I/R group exhibited architecture loss of the three zones. Zona glomerulosa cells showed small pyknotic nuclei and vacuolated cytoplasm. Zona fasciculata cells appeared ballooned with small pyknotic nuclei. Also, karyolitic nuclei were seen. zona reticularis cells showed pyknotic nuclei and vacuolated cytoplasm and separated by congested blood sinusoids. Hyaline material depositions were seen. Biochemical study revealed a marked increase in serum levels of liver enzymes, excess in the MDA level and a marked reduction in the CAT level compared to control group. These changes were ameliorated by L-Arg.
Conclusion: Hepatic I/R has been proved to induce histological changes of the adrenal cortex which could be ameliorated by administration of L-Arg. Therefore, For inhibiting or reducing hepatic IRI through liver surgery, an effective method is urgently required.