Definition
noun, plural: hepatocytes
Any of the large, polygonal-shaped cells in the liver.
Supplement
Hepatocytes are the major functional component of the liver. They make up 70-80% of the mass of the liver.
They are parenchyma cells arranged in plates that anastomose with one another. Most of them have a single nucleus although binucleate cells are also not uncommon. They also have abundant rough and smooth endoplasmic reticulum, as well as stacks of Golgi membrane, which are necessary for their function.
They perform various functions such as synthesis of proteins and lipids for secretion, storage and transformation of carbohydrates (e.g. glycogen into glucose), synthesis of cholesterol, bile salts and phospholipids, and detoxification, modification and excretion of exogenous and endogenous substances.
Word origin: Greek hépat-, s. of hêpar liver + New Latin –cyta, from Greek kutos, hollow vessel.
Synonym: liver cell.
See also: liver.
Dictionary > Hepatocyte
You will also like...
Psychiatry & Mental Disorders
Different mental disorders are described here. Read this tutorial to get an overview of schizophrenia, affective mood di..
Still Freshwater & Plants
Plants in lentic habitats have features not found in terrestrial plants. They acquired these features as they adapt to t..
Muscle
Muscle cells are specialized to generate force and movement. Learn about the different types of muscle tissues in this t..
Human Reproduction
Humans are capable of only one mode of reproduction, i.e. sexual reproduction. Haploid sex cells (gametes) are produced ..
New Zealand’s Unique Flora
If New Zealand has lots of unique animals, it's also got a whole lot of unique plants. Find out more about some of them,..
Sleep and Dreams – Neurology
While learning and intelligence are associated with the functions of a conscious mind, sleep and dreams are activities o..