Expression of prolyl 4-hydroxylase, type III and IV procollagen mRNAs in fibrotic human liver

Abstract

In situ localization of prolyl 4-hydroxylase, type III and IV procollagen mRNAs were examined to clarify the collagen production in fibrotic human liver. These mRNAs were localized in hepatocytes and mesenchymal cells in the areas of liver fibrosis. In alcoholic liver disease, the expression was promoted, and positive cells were diffusely observed in lobules and nodules. These results suggest that hepatocytes along with mesenchymal cells produce collagens, and correlate with pericellular fibrosis and sinusoidal capillarization in alcoholic liver disease.