What is the Difference Between Kupffer Cells and Hepatocytes?
🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚Kupffer cells and hepatocytes are two distinct cell types found in the liver, each with unique functions and characteristics. Here are the main differences between them:
- Function: Kupffer cells are specialized macrophages that play a major role in clearing the blood from ingested bacterial pathogens and maintaining liver functions. Hepatocytes, on the other hand, are parenchymal cells that carry out a vast array of metabolic, regulatory, and toxicological functions, including detoxification, protein synthesis, innate immunity, and bile secretion.
- Shape: Kupffer cells are star-shaped (stellate), while hepatocytes are polygonal in shape.
- Abundance: The liver is composed of 60% parenchymal cells, such as hepatocytes, and 30% to 35% non-parenchymal cells, such as Kupffer cells, hepatic stellate cells, and liver sinusoidal endothelial cells.
- Location: Kupffer cells are found lining the hepatic sinusoids, among other cells of the innate immune system. Hepatocytes, however, make up the bulk of the liver and are responsible for its primary functions.
In summary, Kupffer cells are specialized immune cells that play a crucial role in liver immune responses and pathogen clearance, while hepatocytes are the main functional cells of the liver, responsible for various essential tasks such as detoxification and protein synthesis.
On this pageWhat is the Difference Between Kupffer Cells and Hepatocytes? Comparative Table: Kupffer Cells vs Hepatocytes
Comparative Table: Kupffer Cells vs Hepatocytes
Here is a table comparing the differences between Kupffer cells and hepatocytes:
| Feature | Kupffer Cells | Hepatocytes |
|---|---|---|
| Definition | Kupffer cells are specialized macrophages found in the liver. | Hepatocytes are parenchymal cells that reside in the liver and make up about 80% of the liver cells. |
| Function | Kupffer cells primary function is to remove ingested bacterial pathogens that entered the liver. They are also involved in various liver diseases and maintaining tissue homeostasis. | Hepatocytes play key roles in metabolism, detoxification, and protein synthesis in the body. They are responsible for synthesizing proteins important for blood coagulation and secretion of bile. |
| Location | Kupffer cells are distributed along the hepatic sinusoids and preferentially near the periportal areas. | Hepatocytes are large polyhedral cells with large round centrally located nuclei. |
| Cell Type | Kupffer cells are macrophages. | Hepatocytes are parenchymal cells. |
Both Kupffer cells and hepatocytes are liver cells that support liver function and play a role in the immune system.
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