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Relaxin Receptor Expression in Hepatic Stellate Cells and in Cirrhotic Rat Liver Tissue
Author(s) -
BENNETT ROBERT G.,
MAHAN KATRINA J.,
GENTRYNIELSEN MARTHA J.,
TUMA DEAN J.
Publication year - 2005
Publication title -
annals of the new york academy of sciences
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.712
H-Index - 248
eISSN - 1749-6632
pISSN - 0077-8923
DOI - 10.1196/annals.1282.027
Subject(s) - relaxin , hepatic stellate cell , cirrhosis , receptor , medicine , endocrinology , biology , liver cytology , hepatocyte , biochemistry , in vitro , liver metabolism
A bstract : Relaxin has antifibrotic effects on the hepatic stellate cells (HSCs) responsible for collagen deposition in cirrhosis. The expression of relaxin receptors LGR7 and LGR8 in HSCs and liver disease was examined. Activated and quiescent HSCs expressed LGR7, whereas only activated HSCs expressed LGR8. Relaxin, relaxin‐3, or InsL3 treatment increased cAMP, suggesting activation of both receptors. LGR8 and LGR7 were present in cirrhotic rat liver, but were undetectable in normal liver. In conclusion, both LGR7 and LGR8 are expressed in activated HSCs and cirrhotic liver, suggesting that relaxin, InsL3, or relaxin‐3 may be useful in the treatment of hepatic fibrosis.