Thermostable hepatocyte growth factor and energy metabolism in rats after partial hepatectomy

The relationship between energy metabolism in the remaining liver tissue after 60% hepatectomy and the activity of low-molecular-weight thermostable hepatocyte growth factor was studied in rats. The energy status of the liver was markedly reduced 6 h and to a greater degree 12 h after the operation, judging from the levels of ATP, ADP, AMP, and energy potential. The energy status improved (energy potential increased to 95% of the initial level) 24–72 h after the operation. This coincided with a decrease in hexokinase and phosphofructokinase activities and an increase in glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase and isocitrate dehydrogenase activities, indicating suppressed glycolysis and activation of the Krebs' cycle. High activity of low-molecular-weight thermostable hepatocyte growth factor was detected 24–72 h after resection of the liver (with maximum activity after 48 h). The activity of the hepatocyte growth factor increased if the range of energy potential surpassed the level sufficient for maintaining protein production, which is an energy-consuming process, but lower than the normal level.