Hepatocytes
Hepatocytes
Hepatocytes (pronounced: heh-puh-TOH-sites) are the primary cell type found in the liver. They are responsible for the organ's many functions, including detoxification, protein synthesis, and the production of biochemicals necessary for digestion.
Etymology
The term "hepatocyte" is derived from the Greek words "hepar" or "hepat-", meaning liver, and "-cyte", which is used in scientific terminology to denote a cell.
Function
Hepatocytes are responsible for a wide range of functions in the body. They play a crucial role in the metabolism of lipids and carbohydrates, the synthesis of proteins, the detoxification of the body, and the production of bile, an essential component in the process of digestion.
Structure
Hepatocytes are polygonal in shape and have a diameter of about 20-30 micrometers. They are organized into structural and functional units called lobules, which are the basic units of the liver.
Related Terms
- Liver: The organ in which hepatocytes are found.
- Lobules: The structural and functional units of the liver, composed of hepatocytes.
- Bile: A substance produced by hepatocytes that aids in digestion.
- Detoxification: A process carried out by hepatocytes to remove harmful substances from the body.
- Protein synthesis: The creation of proteins, a function performed by hepatocytes.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hepatocytes
- Wikipedia's article - Hepatocytes
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