ACTION OF MELATONIN AND PHYSICAL EXERCISE IN HEPATOPULMONARY SYNDROME

Introduction and Objectives

Hepatopulmonary syndrome (HPS) is characterized by the presence of liver alterations, hypoxemia and intrapulmonary vascular dilations. Melatonin (MLT) and physical exercise (EX) have several beneficial effects demonstrated in the literature.

To evaluate the effects of MLT and EX in HPS induced by bile duct ligation.

Materials and Methods

Twenty-six male Wistar rats (±350 grams) were divided into four groups: CO, BDL, BDL+MLT, and BDL+EX. MLT was administered via i.p. (20 mg/kg), once/day, from the 15th to the 28th day, as well as physical exercise (swimming). On the 29th day, blood and lung samples were collected for analysis. Statistical analysis: ANOVA+Student-Newman-Keuls, p<0.05.

Results

AST, ALT and ALP increased significantly in the BDL group compared to the CO group and decreased significantly in the treated groups compared to BDL. In the parameters PCO2, EB, pH and O2st, a significant difference was observed in the BDL group compared to the CO group and in the BDL+MLT and BDL +EX groups compared to the BDL group. In the lung histology, a significant increase in the diameter of the blood vessels was observed in the BDL group when compared to the CO group, while in the treated groups, a significant reduction in vasodilation was observed compared to the BDL group. The expression of VEGF and PDGF increased significantly in the BDL group compared to the CO group and decreased significantly in the treated groups compared to the BDL group.

Conclusions

MLT and EX exert beneficial effects on BDL-induced HPS, reducing hepatic and pulmonary alterations.

Conflict of interest: None

Lung histology (HE)