Role of Kupffer-cells in the regulation of hepatic inflammatory and metabolic processes

摘要

Based on literature data, the authors present the central role of Kupffer cells as resident liver macrophages in the regulation of hepatic inflammatory response and metabolic processes. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) type endotoxins originated from Gram negative bacteria causing enteric infections, may trigger inflammation in the liver via the mediation of Kupffer cells, which is of special importance in the veterinary medicine, as well. Kupffer cells are being activated by binding LPS to cell surface receptors, stimulating pro-inflammatory cytokine, eicosanoid and chemokine production, thus regulating the systemic immune response. The authors showed that according to recent studies, the function of Kupffer cells could be affected by alterations of lipid homeostasis, and Kupffer cells are playing pivotal role in the pathogenesis of hepatic lipidosis. Furthermore, Kupffer cells are highly involved in the complex regulation of metabolic processes, being potent effectors of insulin sensitivity, carbohydrate and lipid metabolism as key cells in immunometabolic interactions.