The occurrence of apoptosis in liver ischemia/reperfusion injury has been well characterized in animal models. In this context apoptosis has specifically been observed in sinusoidal endothelial cells and hepatocytes, and this has also been associated with an increase in activated caspase-3 in liver tissue extracts. The use of caspase inhibitors to prevent apoptosis during liver storage and transplantation may reduce ischemia/reperfusion injury and hence improve graft function after transplantation. Suppression of apoptosis by caspase inhibitors may also allow for longer ischemic times allowing organs to be transported greater distances. In addition, suppression of apoptosis may lower the risk involved in using suboptimal donor organs.
