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Local proliferation and extrahepatic recruitment of liver macrophages (Kupffer cells) in partial-body irradiated rats

Journal Article · · J. Leukocyte Biol.; (United States)
OSTI ID:5230957

The relative significance of local proliferation and extrahepatic recruitment of Kupffer cells was investigated by partial-body irradiation before the induction of macrophage hyperplasia by zymosan. There was no difference in growth of the Kupffer cells population between nonirradiated rats and rats irradiated with the liver shielded, whereas irradiation of the liver with the rest of the body (bone marrow) shielded resulted in strong inhibition of growth (-61%). Splenectomy combined with bone marrow irradiation inhibited growth to a lesser extent as compared to liver irradiation (-38%). Monocyte and other leukocyte numbers were strongly reduced in peripheral blood and their accumulation in the liver was completely prevented by bone marrow irradiation. Our results demonstrate that local proliferation of resident Kupffer cells represents the predominant source for their increased number during hyperplasia.

Research Organization:
Free Univ. of Brussels, Belgium
OSTI ID:
5230957
Journal Information:
J. Leukocyte Biol.; (United States), Journal Name: J. Leukocyte Biol.; (United States) Vol. 6; ISSN JLBIE
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English