hepatocellulaire

Hepatocellulaire is a French term used to describe aspects related to hepatocytes, the principal parenchymal cells of the liver. In English, the corresponding adjective is hepatocellular. Hepatocellular terms appear in references to the structure, function, and pathology of liver cells.

Hepatocytes are large, polygonal cells arranged in plates that extend from the periportal area toward the central vein within hepatic lobules. They perform most liver functions, including metabolism of carbohydrates, lipids, and proteins; detoxification of drugs and toxins; bile synthesis and secretion; storage of glycogen; and synthesis of plasma proteins such as albumin and clotting factors. Their activity is supported by a network of sinusoids, bile canaliculi, and non-parenchymal cells such as Kupffer cells and stellate cells.

Histologically, hepatocytes are linked by tight junctions and gap junctions and are surrounded by sinusoids lined with fenestrated endothelium. The functional unit is the lobule, with portal triads at the corners and a central vein in the center. Bile produced by hepatocytes drains into canaliculi and then into bile ducts.

Clinically, hepatocellular injury or disease is assessed by laboratory markers and imaging. Chronic hepatocellular damage can contribute to cirrhosis, while malignant transformation of hepatocytes gives rise to hepatocellular carcinoma (carcinome hepatocellulaire in French). Immunohistochemical markers such as HepPar-1 and arginase-1 help identify hepatocellular lineage in tissue samples.