Liver sinusoidal endothelial cell (LSEC) and local vasculature (LSEC)

Liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs) are highly specialized, fenestrated cells that line the hepatic sinusoids, acting as a selective barrier between the blood and hepatocytes. They are characterized by the absence of a basement membrane and the presence of numerous pores (fenestrae), which facilitate the rapid exchange of nutrients and waste products (Sørensen et al., 2015, Journal of Hepatology). LSECs serve as a major scavenger system in the body, utilizing receptors like Stabilin-2 to clear circulating macromolecules and pathogens (Geraud et al., 2012, American Journal of Physiology). In chronic liver disease, LSECs undergo capillarization—a process involving the loss of fenestrae and the formation of a basement membrane—which contributes to portal hypertension and the progression of fibrosis (Iwakiri & Trebicka, 2021, Nature Reviews Gastroenterology & Hepatology). While LSECs are a cellular population rather than a single molecular target, they are critical sites for therapeutic intervention using drugs like statins or VEGF inhibitors to restore vascular function or deliver targeted therapies to the liver (Marrone et al., 2013, Journal of Hepatology).

Other names

LSECsHepatic sinusoidal endothelial cellsLiver sinusoidsSinusoidal endotheliumHepatic microvasculature

Modulation of nitric oxide (NO) signaling, inhibition of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) pathways, and activation of scavenger receptors for clearance of macromolecules.