Hepatocyte

Hepato-biliary system

File:Hepatocyte Culture.tif

Hepatocyte Culture

File:Membrane proteins of the polarized hepatocytes.jpg

Membrane proteins of the polarized hepatocytes

The hepatocyte is the primary cell type in the liver and is responsible for the organ's many functions. Hepatocytes make up 70-85% of the liver's mass and perform more functions than any other group of cells in the body.

Structure

Hepatocytes are polygonal in shape and have a diameter of 20-30 micrometers. Each cell has a large, round nucleus and one or more nucleoli. The cytoplasm of a hepatocyte is abundant and eosinophilic. It contains many organelles, including mitochondria, endoplasmic reticulum, Golgi apparatus, lysosomes, and peroxisomes.

Function

Hepatocytes perform a wide range of functions, including:

• Protein synthesis
• Protein storage
• Transformation of carbohydrates
• Synthesis of cholesterol, bile salts, and phospholipids
• Detoxification, modification, and excretion of exogenous and endogenous substances
• Initiation of formation and secretion of bile

Clinical significance

Hepatocytes are involved in many diseases, such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. They can regenerate in response to injury, but their capacity for regeneration is not unlimited. Chronic damage to hepatocytes, as occurs in chronic hepatitis and cirrhosis, can lead to irreversible damage and liver failure.

See also

• Liver
• Hepatitis
• Cirrhosis
• Hepatocellular carcinoma