Canalicular membrane of hepatocyte

The **canalicular membrane of hepatocytes** is the apical plasma membrane domain that forms the boundary of the bile canaliculi, the smallest branches of the biliary tree through which bile is secreted. This membrane is highly specialized, containing a dense network of actin and myosin that supports its dynamic morphology and contractility. It is enriched with ATP-binding cassette (ABC) and other efflux transporters responsible for the active secretion of bile acids, bilirubin conjugates, xenobiotics, and other organic molecules into bile. Proper formation and maintenance of this membrane, as well as its protein and lipid composition, are essential for hepatocyte polarity and liver function. Disruption of the canalicular membrane or its transporters can lead to impaired bile flow and various cholestatic liver diseases.

Other names

canalicular membraneapical membrane of hepatocytebile canaliculus membrane