hepatocyte
Summary
Hepatocytes are the primary functional cells of the liver, comprising 60-80% of liver mass. They perform essential metabolic functions including protein synthesis, detoxification, glucose metabolism, and bile production. Hepatocyte dysfunction underlies most liver diseases and can be assessed through liver function tests.
Detail
Hepatocytes are polygonal epithelial cells that form the hepatic parenchyma and are organized into hepatic lobules around central veins. They contain abundant organelles including mitochondria, rough ER, smooth ER, and peroxisomes to support their diverse metabolic functions. Key functions include: (1) Protein synthesis - albumin, clotting factors (II, VII, IX, X), transferrin, and other plasma proteins; (2) Carbohydrate metabolism - glycogenesis, glycogenolysis, and gluconeogenesis; (3) Lipid metabolism - fatty acid oxidation, cholesterol synthesis, and lipoprotein production; (4) Detoxification - Phase I (cytochrome P450) and Phase II conjugation reactions; (5) Bile synthesis and secretion containing bile salts, bilirubin, and cholesterol. Hepatocytes have remarkable regenerative capacity and can proliferate after injury. Damage to hepatocytes releases intracellular enzymes (ALT, AST) into circulation, making these important biomarkers for liver injury. Chronic hepatocyte damage leads to fibrosis, cirrhosis, and potential hepatocellular carcinoma.
Sources
- Robbins Basic Pathology
- First Aid for USMLE Step 1
- Ganong's Review of Medical Physiology
- Harrison's Principles of Internal Medicine
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