Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 5, 2026
07:23
Using a Whole-mount Immunohistochemical Method to Study the Innervation of the Biliary Tract in Suncus murinus
Published on: June 15, 2017
Functional anatomy of normal bile ducts
Mario Strazzabosco1, Luca Fabris
1Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University, New Haven 06504, Connecticut, USA. mario.strazzabosco@yale.edu
Anatomical Record (Hoboken, N.J. : 2007)
|May 20, 2008
Summary
The biliary tree
Area of Science:
- Hepatobiliary system
- Gastroenterology
- Cell biology
Background:
- The biliary tree is a complex ductal network essential for bile transport.
- Biliary epithelium exhibits functional heterogeneity across different ductal levels.
- Cholangiocytes are key epithelial cells with diverse roles.
Purpose of the Study:
- To elucidate the multifaceted functions of cholangiocytes.
- To highlight the plasticity and progenitor cell-like capabilities of cholangiocytes.
- To emphasize the importance of neurovascular interactions in biliary function.
Main Methods:
- Morphological analysis of biliary epithelium.
- Functional assays for cholangiocyte absorptive and secretory activities.
- Investigation of cholangiocyte plasticity and progenitor potential.
- Examination of neurovascular-biliary interactions.
Main Results:
- Cholangiocytes display specialized absorptive and secretory functions.
- Cholangiocytes exhibit plasticity and progenitor cell characteristics.
- Neurovascular structures modulate cholangiocyte functions.
Conclusions:
- Cholangiocytes are dynamic cells with diverse roles beyond bile transport.
- The plasticity and progenitor potential of cholangiocytes are significant findings.
- Interactions with nerve and vascular systems are critical for biliary homeostasis.
Related Concept Videos
01:17Gallbladder
The gallbladder is a small, pear-shaped organ that plays a crucial role in our digestive system. Measuring about 10 cm in length, it is comparable in size to a kiwi fruit and is located in a hollow area on the lower surface of the liver. The gallbladder's primary function is to store and concentrate bile, a fluid produced by the liver that aids in digestion.
The gallbladder's anatomy consists of three regions: the fundus, body, and neck. Extending from the neck, the cystic duct joins the common...
The gallbladder's anatomy consists of three regions: the fundus, body, and neck. Extending from the neck, the cystic duct joins the common...
01:27Liver Histology
The microscopic anatomy of the liver is a complex and intricate system that comprises numerous structural units known as liver lobules, each of which is comparable in size to a sesame seed. These hexagonal structures consist of plates of liver cells or hepatocytes, which are characterized by their versatility and abundance of cellular apparatus like rough and smooth ER, Golgi apparatus, peroxisomes, and mitochondria.
Hepatocytes perform a variety of essential functions. They secrete...
Hepatocytes perform a variety of essential functions. They secrete...
01:19Bile
Bile is a crucial bodily fluid, characterized by its yellow-green color and alkaline nature. Produced in the liver, it is transported through the common hepatic duct into either the cystic duct, leading to the gallbladder, or directly into the common bile duct. The flow of bile is regulated by the sphincter of Oddi located at the entrance of the duodenum. When this sphincter is closed, bile is redirected to the gallbladder for storage and concentration.
Bile is released when dietary fats enter...
Bile is released when dietary fats enter...
01:19Pancreas
The pancreas, an essential organ in the human body, is a pinkish-gray elongated structure located posterior to the stomach. It extends laterally from the duodenum towards the spleen and is firmly bound to the posterior wall of the abdominal cavity. The organ's surface has a lumpy, lobular texture that gives it a unique appearance.
The broad head of the pancreas lies within the loop formed by the duodenum, while its slender body reaches towards the spleen. The tail of the pancreas is short and...
The broad head of the pancreas lies within the loop formed by the duodenum, while its slender body reaches towards the spleen. The tail of the pancreas is short and...
01:17Gross Anatomy of the Liver
The liver, the largest gland within the human body, is a firm and reddish-brown organ. This wedge-shaped structure weighs approximately 1.5 kg and occupies a significant portion of the right hypochondriac and epigastric regions. It extends more to the right of the body's midline than to the left.
Located under the diaphragm, the liver is almost entirely ensconced within the rib cage, providing it with substantial protection. Except for the superior most bare area, the liver's surface is covered...
Located under the diaphragm, the liver is almost entirely ensconced within the rib cage, providing it with substantial protection. Except for the superior most bare area, the liver's surface is covered...
01:27Histology of the Small Intestine
The small intestine exhibits a unique histological structure that significantly enhances its function in digestion and nutrient absorption. These structures include circular folds, villi, and various specialized cells that collectively facilitate the digestion of food.
The intestinal lining features transverse folds called circular folds, each housing fingerlike projections known as intestinal villi. These villi are covered by a layer of simple columnar epithelium, also referred to as...
The intestinal lining features transverse folds called circular folds, each housing fingerlike projections known as intestinal villi. These villi are covered by a layer of simple columnar epithelium, also referred to as...