RESUMEN
PURPOSE: The effect of intra-portal infusion of glucose-insulin-potassium (GIK) solution on the energy metabolism during cold preservation was investigated using a small-animal liver transplantation model. METHODS: Fifteen white rats were divided into 3 groups: the group A (feeding group) were fed normally before experiment. The group B (fasting group) and group C (GIK group) were fasted from 3 days before experiment, by which acute nutritional deficiency state was induced. In group A and B, the whole liver was procured after intra-portal perfusion of HTK solution and serial liver biopsies were performed during the cold preservation period with 4degrees C HTK solution. In group C, intra-portal GIK solution infusion for 1 hour preceded liver graft harvest. From the liver tissues, the relative intracellular glycogen contents and the ATP concentration were measured. RESULTS: Relative glycogen contents in group A were 100% at 0 h, 64.6% at 2 h, 54.9% at 4 h, and 16.2% at 8 h; 10.3%, 8.3%, 4.9% and 0%, respectively in group B; 109.2%, 96.9%, 54.2% and 9.7%, respectively in group C. There was a temporary supercharge of ATP level in group C only at 0 h. Apoptosis was less expressed in group C comparing with group A and B. CONCLUSION: Rapid intra- portal infusion of GIK solution could make intrahepatic glycogen content fully restored to the normal level. Considering that intracellular glycogen is the main energy source during immediate post-transplant period, its restoration may contribute to improvement of post-transplant graft function.