Monthly Archives: May 2020
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- May 01, 2020
Hepatic sinusoidal endothelial cells (HSEC) are fascinating cells that are uniquely adapted to their location in the liver. HSEC are found lining micro-vessels in the liver and are extremely specialized endothelial cells. Structurally and functionally they have distinctive features which include: open pores known as fenestra which form sieve plates, a lack of an organized basement membrane, expression of scavenger receptors, and performing endocytic activity. Notably, HSEC are highly permeable and play a critical role in removing bloodborne waste. To perform the endocytic function, HSEC express a vast array of scavenger receptors as well as the mannose receptor, which allows them to collect molecules from the bloodstream and transport them to the hepatocytes.
HSEC also play a pivotal role in the innate immunity by their ability to bind viruses and other pathogens through their endocytic receptors. By way of the portal vein, the liver is continuously being exposed to antigens and microbes
