Is there a rationale to supplement hepatotropic factors to dogs with multiple acquired portosystemic shunts secondary to congenital portosystemic shunt attenuation?

Experimental rat models and clinical trials in human patients with liver cirrhosis show evidence that supplementation hepatotropic factors provides therapeutic benefits. This form of support has not yet been described dogs multiple acquired portosystemic shunts (MAPSS) despite similarities between both pathological conditions. Especially hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) branched chain amino acids (BCAA) deserve closer attention. High-quality vegetable rather than animal proteins have suggested to an excellent dietary source BCAA, leucine seems the best candidate for given its stimulating effects on function general HGF secretion specifically. Research optimal ways administration MAPSS secondary congenital shunt attenuation is necessary before can be initiated.