Liver Regeneration and Aging: A Current Perspective
2011
Liver Regeneration and Aging: A Current Perspective
publication
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Douglas L. Schmucker, Henry Sanchez
Primary Institution: University of California, San Francisco
Hypothesis
Aging compromises the liver's regenerative capacity.
Conclusion
Aging impairs the rate of liver regeneration but does not affect the organ's ability to restore its original volume.
Supporting Evidence
- Aging leads to a 60% decline in EGF binding to hepatocyte plasma membranes.
- Reduced expression of the hepatic high affinity EGF receptor occurs with aging.
- Aging affects the upregulation of the Forkhead Box transcription factor, FoxM1B, essential for liver regeneration.
- Mortality due to liver disease increases 3-5 fold in the elderly compared to younger populations.
- Studies suggest that livers from older donors may be less viable than those from younger donors.
Takeaway
As we get older, our livers take longer to heal after injuries, but they can still return to their normal size.
Methodology
The review discusses various studies on liver regeneration in old rodents and elderly humans, focusing on cellular and molecular mechanisms.
Limitations
Most studies have been qualitative or based on postmortem samples, limiting comprehensive understanding.
Participant Demographics
Studies primarily involve old rodents and elderly humans.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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