The Kupffer cells are phagocytic cells that line the liver sinusoids. Their main function is to engulf senescent red blood cells, potentially obstructive debris, fragments of proteins, and iron deposits from destroyed red cells. They also capture any bacteria that may arrive in the portal system blood. The liver sinusoids are vascular spaces (blood-vessels) that radiate from the hepatic portal vein, which conveys nutrients-containing blood from the superior mesenteric vein.
The Kupffer cells are monocyte-derived macrophages, which form a permanent resident population of the liver sinusoids. They attach to the endothelial cells which constitute the walls of the liver sinusoids. Their surface has microvilli which stick out in every direction. These microvilli are involved in endocytosis of dead organic particles. Endocytosis is the uptake of material from the intercellular environment by a cell through envagination of its plasma membrane.
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| Above, a scanning electron micrograph showing a Kupffer cell (K), which is located at a bifurcation between sinusoids (S) of the liver. |
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