Canals of Hering

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Canals of Hering

File:Canals of Hering.jpg
Illustration of the Canals of Hering

The Canals of Hering, also known as intrahepatic bile ductules, are part of the outflow system of exocrine bile product from the liver in most vertebrates. They serve as a bridge between the hepatocytes (liver cells) and the bile ductules, playing a crucial role in the transport of bile from the liver to the gallbladder.

Structure[edit | edit source]

The Canals of Hering are microscopic structures, typically 10-15 micrometers in diameter. They are lined by a layer of cholangiocytes (bile duct cells) and hepatocytes. The canals begin in the liver lobules, where they are surrounded by hepatocytes, and extend to connect with the interlobular bile ducts in the portal tracts.

Function[edit | edit source]

The primary function of the Canals of Hering is to facilitate the transport of bile, produced by hepatocytes, to the bile ducts. They also play a significant role in liver regeneration, as they are believed to be the site of residence of the liver progenitor cells, also known as oval cells.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Diseases affecting the Canals of Hering, such as Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis and Primary Biliary Cirrhosis, can lead to serious liver conditions. These diseases are often characterized by inflammation and fibrosis of the bile ducts, leading to cholestasis, or reduced bile flow.

History[edit | edit source]

The Canals of Hering were named after the German anatomist and physiologist, Karl Wilhelm von Hering, who first described these structures in the 19th century.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD