[Ultrastructural aspects of the reversible nature of sclerotic changes in the liver].

Experiments on mice have demonstrated ultrastructural changes in collagen and hepatocytes during reverse development of liver cirrhosis. Progressive lysis of collagenous fibers has been noted. Changes in hepatocytes point to a rise in the synthetic and endocytosis activity in these cells. It is suggested that exocellular lysis of collagen in the process under consideration is initiated by collagenase whereas subsequently it takes place under the action of lysosomal enzymes secreted by hepatocytes to the exocellular space.