Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 14, 2026

Isolation of Neonatal Extrahepatic Cholangiocytes
Published on: June 5, 2014
Bile duct epithelium: frontiers in transport physiology
1Department of Internal Medicine, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut 06510, USA.
Abstract:
The bile duct epithelium is known to modify hepatic bile by both secretory and absorptive processes. However, identification and characterization of the transport systems that carry out these physiological functions at the cellular and molecular level have been slow compared with progress in understanding hepatic bile production. Recently, techniques have been developed that enable bile duct cells to be isolated in substantial number and purity and as intact polarized units that can be studied in vitro. These newer preparations have enabled classic physiological approaches to be performed directly with the bile duct epithelial tissues. Progress in this important area of biliary physiology is now rapid and forms the basis for this review.
Related Concept Videos
The Significance of Membrane Transport
Transporters facilitate either an active or passive movement of solutes. They can allow a single-molecule transport down its...
Transcellular Transport of Solutes
Microvilli
These microvilli are predominantly present in cells lining the small intestine, kidney tubules, and certain cells in the respiratory and reproductive systems. By significantly expanding the surface area of the cell membrane, microvilli enhance the cell's capacity to...
Classification of Epithelial Tissues: Simple Epithelium
Because of the thinness of the cells, simple squamous epithelium is present where the rapid passage of chemical compounds is observed. For example, the endothelium that lines the capillaries and vessels...
Bile
Bile is released when dietary fats enter...
Gallbladder
The gallbladder's anatomy consists of three regions: the fundus, body, and neck. Extending from the neck, the cystic duct joins the common...

