Human hepatocyte

Human hepatocytes are the primary functional parenchymal cells of the liver, accounting for approximately 80% of the organ's total mass [1]. They perform a wide array of vital physiological processes, including the regulation of glucose and lipid homeostasis, the synthesis of critical blood proteins like albumin and coagulation factors, and the production of bile [2]. In the pharmaceutical industry, hepatocytes are the central focus of drug metabolism and pharmacokinetics (DMPK) due to their high expression of cytochrome P450 enzymes and membrane transporters [3]. While hepatocytes are fundamental to the progression of diseases such as hepatitis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma, the term 'Human hepatocytes' refers to a cell type rather than a specific molecular target like a receptor or enzyme [4]. Consequently, therapeutic development typically focuses on specific molecular entities within these cells, such as the HMG-CoA reductase enzyme or the asialoglycoprotein receptor, rather than the cell population itself [5].

Other names

Liver cellParenchymal liver cellHepatic cell

Hepatocytes serve as the primary site for drug metabolism (Phase I and II biotransformation) and are targeted for liver-specific delivery via cell-surface receptors like the Asialoglycoprotein receptor (ASGR) using GalNAc conjugation. They also act as the host environment for hepatotropic pathogens such as HBV, HCV, and Plasmodium species.