Hybrid Bioactive Hydrogel Promotes Liver Regeneration through the Activation of Kupffer Cells and ECM Remodeling After Partial Hepatectomy

Abstract

Partial hepatectomy is an essential surgical technique used to treat advanced liver diseases such as liver tumors, as well as for performing liver transplants from living donors.However, postoperative complications such as bleeding, abdominal adhesions, wound infections, and accelerated liver regeneration pose significant challenges and increase morbidity and mortality rates.We have developed a self‐repairing mixed hydrogel (O5H2/Cu2+/SCCK) containing bioactive cell factors (SCCK) derived from Human Umbilical Cord Mesenchymal Stem Cells (HUMSCs) treated with the traditional Chinese remedy Tanshinone IIA (TSA).This hydrogel, in conjunction with O5H2, demonstrated remarkable effects on Kupffer cell activation and extracellular matrix (ECM) remodeling.This led to the secretion of critical growth factors promoting enhanced proliferation of hepatocytes and endothelial cells, thereby facilitating liver regeneration and repair after partial hepatectomy.Furthermore, the hydrogel, featuring macrophage‐regulating properties, effectively mitigated inflammation and oxidative stress damage in the incision area, creating an optimal environment for postoperative liver regeneration.The injectability and strong adhesion of the hydrogel enables rapid hemostasis at the incision site, while its physical barrier function prevents postoperative abdominal adhesions.Furthermore, the hydrogel's incorporation of Cu2+ provided comprehensive antibacterial effects, protecting against a wide range of bacteria types and reducing the chances of infections after surgery. This combined method shows promise in improving tissue healing and functional results after partial hepatectomy and living donor liver transplantation, ultimately enhancing patients' quality of life.This article is protected by copyright. All rights reserved