ObjectiveTo evaluate the expression of heat shock genes and acute phase genes and to examine the hepatic ultrastracture under the stress of intermittent Pringle manoeuvre. MethodsRT-PCR was used to detect the expression of HSP70A, HSC70, TNF-? and IL-6,and electronic microscopy examination was taken to document the ultrastructural change in patients with hepatocellular carcinoma, with or without, Pringle manoeuvre, during the operations. ResultsHeat shock gene family-HSP70A and HSC70, which is related to intracellular repair and cell protection, was on higer expression after liver transection in Pringle manoenvre group than that of control group. Normal ultrastructure were also found in liver parenchymal cells and nonparenchymal cells in Pringle manoeuvre group after liver resection. ConclusionIntermittent Pringle manoeuvre induced relatively higher expression of heat shock genes, which are related to intracellular homestasis, and was consistent with the well maintenance of liver ultrastructure.