Liver Growth and Repair

Bucher's chapter, the modem phase ofexperimental studies on liver regeneration started in 1931 with the publication by Higgins and Anderson of a method to perform a two-thirds resection of the liver of a rat. This volume brings together information on basic science research and its potential clinical application. The molecular and cell biology of liver growth is thoroughly reviewed, with an emphasis on the interaction of different cell types and the involvement of the extra-cellular matrix. Experimental models of liver repair following injury are summarized and the involvement of growth factor families discussed. Several chapters are devoted to potential clinical applications.