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Mechanisms of cholestasis
Gernot Zollner1, Michael Trauner
1Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Department of Internal Medicine, Laboratory of Experimental and Molecular Hepatology, Medical University of Graz, Auenbruggerplatz 15, A-8036 Graz, Austria.
Clinics in Liver Disease
|February 5, 2008
Summary
This review covers molecular and cellular mechanisms of cholestasis, including hereditary syndromes and acquired disorders. It also discusses adaptive liver cell responses to cholestatic injury.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Molecular Biology
- Cellular Biology
Background:
- Cholestasis involves impaired bile flow, leading to liver damage.
- Understanding its mechanisms is crucial for diagnosis and treatment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of cholestasis mechanisms.
- To review hereditary and acquired cholestatic disorders.
- To discuss adaptive hepatocellular responses.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of molecular and cellular mechanisms.
- Analysis of pathomechanisms in various cholestatic syndromes.
- Discussion of hepatocellular transporter defects.
Main Results:
- Detailed examination of progressive familial intrahepatic cholestasis.
- Review of hepatocellular transporter defects in acquired cholestasis (e.g., drug-induced, pregnancy-related).
- Exploration of adaptive hepatocellular mechanisms against liver damage.
Conclusions:
- Cholestasis arises from complex molecular and cellular dysfunctions.
- Hereditary and acquired forms share common transporter defects.
- Hepatocellular adaptive mechanisms play a role in mitigating liver injury.
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