KUPPFER CELL Meaning and
Definition
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Kupffer cells, also known as hepatic macrophages, are specialized cells found in the liver. They are part of the reticuloendothelial system, which is a network of cells that function in immune defense and removal of foreign particles. Kupffer cells account for about 80-90% of the total tissue macrophages in the body.
These cells are strategically located within the liver sinusoids, which are small blood vessels that carry blood from the intestines to the liver. Kupffer cells have long branching processes that extend into the sinusoidal lumen, allowing them to directly come into contact with the blood passing through. They possess phagocytic properties, meaning that they are able to engulf and digest foreign particles such as bacteria, debris, and toxins present in the bloodstream.
Furthermore, Kupffer cells are involved in the clearance of aged red blood cells, cholesterol, and other waste products from the blood. They also play a crucial role in immune regulation within the liver, acting as antigen-presenting cells to activate other immune cells when necessary.
Overall, Kupffer cells serve as the first line of defense in the liver, protecting it from pathogens and maintaining its proper functioning. Dysfunction or impairment of Kupffer cells can have detrimental effects on liver health, leading to various liver diseases and conditions.
Common Misspellings for KUPPFER CELL
- juppfer cell
- muppfer cell
- luppfer cell
- ouppfer cell
- iuppfer cell
- kyppfer cell
- khppfer cell
- kjppfer cell
- kippfer cell
- k8ppfer cell
- k7ppfer cell
- kuopfer cell
- kulpfer cell
- ku0pfer cell
- kupofer cell
- kuplfer cell
- kup0fer cell
- kuppder cell
- kuppcer cell
- kuppver cell
Etymology of KUPPFER CELL
The term "Kuppfer cell" is derived from the surname of Karl Wilhelm von Kupffer, a German anatomist and physiologist. Kupffer first described these specialized cells in 1876 during his research on the liver. As a tribute to his significant contribution and discovery, the cells were named after him.
