Hepatocyterna

Hepatocyterna, commonly referred to as hepatocytes, are the principal parenchymal cells of the liver and account for the majority of its mass. They are polygonal cells, typically 20–30 micrometers in diameter, often binucleate, and arranged in plates that are one cell thick. These plates are separated by fenestrated sinusoids, allowing contact with blood from the hepatic portal system.

Hepatocytes perform most of the liver’s essential metabolic and secretory functions. They metabolize carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins, store glycogen, participate in gluconeogenesis, and contribute to the urea cycle. They synthesize most plasma proteins (including albumin and clotting factors) and are central to detoxification through phase I and II reactions, notably cytochrome P450 enzymes. Hepatocytes also produce bile, secreting it into small canaliculi formed by apical membranes that drain into bile ducts within the portal triads.

Microanatomy and organization: Blood passes through sinusoids from the portal triads (hepatic artery, portal vein, bile duct) toward the central veins. The space of Disse lies between hepatocytes and sinusoidal endothelium and contains stellate (Ito) cells involved in vitamin A storage and extracellular matrix remodeling. Bile canaliculi connect to the bile ducts of the portal triad, carrying bile out of the liver.

Regeneration and clinical relevance: Hepatocytes have a remarkable regenerative capacity, proliferating after injury or partial hepatectomy under cytokine and growth factor signaling. Damage to hepatocytes underlies many liver diseases, including viral hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease; hepatocellular carcinoma can arise from hepatocytes in chronic disease.