Liver regeneration: Mechanisms, mysteries and more

Background: Liver regeneration remains a fascinating topic, still partly clouded to many as to the exact cellular and molecular mechanisms that bring about this phenomenon. It is an area, therefore, of active research today. This review looks at the recent published reports that have led to a greater understanding of this process. Methods: A database search was carried out on Medline search using the terms liver regeneration with no linguistic limitations from 1966 to 2006. Results: There are two randomized controlled trials on the topic and most data and information have come from experimental studies in animals. Conclusion: Liver regeneration is a complex, tightly controlled process involving many inflammatory cells growth factors and hormones. More information about it is awaited in studies on humans.