Sequestration of a hepatocyte growth factor in extracellular matrix in normal adult rat liver.

Perfusion of normal adult rat livers with Hanks' solution containing 1 M NaCl in situ led to the releasing of a large amount of hepatocyte growth factor (HGF). During the first 5 min of perfusion, the HGF content of the perfusate reached a maximum level, while the LDH activity due to release from the cells was negligible. The liver HGF content did not decrease with age. The liver HGF content in rats injured by CCl4 injection decreased temporarily and then recovered rapidly to a normal level. These results indicate that HGF is sequestered in the extracellular matrix in the subendothelial space in normal adult rat liver and its effect will be either neutralized or potentiated by other local factors.