hepatoblast

Hepatoblast is an immature hepatic progenitor cell found in the developing liver. It is a bipotent precursor capable of differentiating into hepatocytes, the main metabolic cells of the liver, and cholangiocytes, which line the bile ducts. In embryogenesis, hepatoblasts arise from foregut endoderm and proliferate within the hepatic diverticulum, forming cords of cells and the early biliary structures that give rise to the liver parenchyma and biliary system.

During development, hepatoblasts express fetal liver markers and undergo a maturation process in which they gradually acquire characteristics of mature liver cells. They commonly express alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and various cytokeratins, and as differentiation proceeds, they begin to exhibit functions associated with hepatocytes, including production of albumin and activity of metabolic enzymes.

In clinical and pathological contexts, hepatoblasts are most often discussed in relation to hepatoblastoma, a malignant liver tumor that is believed to originate from hepatoblasts or their precursors. Hepatoblastoma is the most common malignant liver tumor in children under three years old and is frequently associated with elevated serum AFP. Diagnosis integrates imaging, AFP levels, and histological examination. Treatment typically involves cisplatin-based chemotherapy and surgical resection or liver transplantation, with prognosis depending on tumor stage, response to therapy, and the feasibility of complete tumor removal.