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

In situ localization of type III, IV procollagen and prolyl 4-hydroxylase 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 nodules. These results suggest that hepatocytes along with mesenchymal cells produce collagens, and correlate with pericellular fibrosis and sinusoidal capillarization in alcoholic liver disease.