Kupffer Cells vs. Hepatocytes: Know the Difference
By Shumaila Saeed || Updated on December 25, 2023
Kupffer cells are liver macrophages involved in immune response, while hepatocytes are the primary liver cells responsible for metabolic functions.
Key Differences
Kupffer cells, as liver-specific macrophages, play a key role in the body's immune defense, especially in filtering and breaking down bacteria and other antigens from the blood. Hepatocytes, on the other hand, are the main functional cells of the liver, crucial for metabolic processes, including the synthesis of proteins, detoxification, and production of biochemicals necessary for digestion.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 17, 2023
Kupffer cells are part of the mononuclear phagocyte system and are critical in the liver's response to infection and inflammation. They can secrete cytokines and other immune mediators. Hepatocytes represent about 70-85% of the liver's cytoplasmic mass and are pivotal in carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 17, 2023
The origin of Kupffer cells is primarily from monocytes, and they are adept at capturing and digesting foreign substances, such as pathogens and debris, in the bloodstream. Hepatocytes, however, are derived from hepatic stem cells and are specialized in bile production, a vital process for digestion and absorption of fats.
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Dec 17, 2023
Kupffer cells also play a role in the regulation of iron storage and breakdown of red blood cells. Their phagocytic nature helps maintain liver homeostasis. Hepatocytes, in contrast, are involved in the storage and regulation of various nutrients like glucose (as glycogen) and vitamins, and also in the detoxification of drugs and toxins.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 17, 2023
In terms of pathology, when Kupffer cells are overstimulated, they can contribute to liver diseases such as cirrhosis or hepatitis. Hepatocytes, being the major cellular component of the liver, are directly involved in liver diseases like hepatocellular carcinoma and fatty liver disease.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 17, 2023
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Comparison Chart
Primary Function
Immune defense, pathogen filtration
Metabolism, protein synthesis, detoxification
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Dec 17, 2023
Role in Liver
Phagocytosis, immune response
Bile production, nutrient storage and regulation
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Dec 17, 2023
Percentage in Liver
A small fraction of liver cells
70-85% of liver's cytoplasmic mass
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Dec 17, 2023
Involvement in Disease
Liver diseases like cirrhosis, hepatitis
Liver diseases like carcinoma, fatty liver
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Dec 17, 2023
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Kupffer Cells and Hepatocytes Definitions
Kupffer Cells
They are part of the body's immune system, defending against pathogens.
Kupffer cells activate during liver infections to combat harmful microorganisms.
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Dec 12, 2023
Hepatocytes
Hepatocytes are the main functional cells of the liver.
Hepatocytes play a crucial role in detoxifying harmful substances in the body.
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Dec 12, 2023
Kupffer Cells
Kupffer cells play a role in breaking down red blood cells.
The breakdown of aged red blood cells is facilitated by the Kupffer cells.
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Dec 12, 2023
Hepatocytes
They are involved in the production of bile.
Bile secreted by hepatocytes aids in the digestion of fats.
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Dec 12, 2023
Kupffer Cells
These cells are involved in the regulation of iron storage in the liver.
Kupffer cells store iron as ferritin after breaking down hemoglobin.
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Dec 12, 2023
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Hepatocytes
These cells store essential nutrients and vitamins.
Hepatocytes store vitamins A, D, and B12 for the body's use.
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Dec 12, 2023
Kupffer Cells
Kupffer cells are specialized macrophages located in the liver.
The Kupffer cells in the liver help in filtering out bacteria from the blood.
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Dec 12, 2023
Hepatocytes
Hepatocytes participate in the detoxification of drugs and toxins.
Alcohol is metabolized primarily by hepatocytes in the liver.
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Dec 12, 2023
Kupffer Cells
Kupffer cells can secrete various immune mediators.
In response to infection, Kupffer cells release cytokines to alert the immune system.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 12, 2023
Hepatocytes
Hepatocytes regulate carbohydrate, fat, and protein metabolism.
The metabolism of glucose is a key function of hepatocytes.
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Dec 12, 2023
Repeatedly Asked Queries
Do Kupffer cells have a role in digestion?
Indirectly, by defending against pathogens that could affect liver function and digestion.
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Dec 17, 2023
What are the main functions of hepatocytes?
Hepatocytes are responsible for metabolism, bile production, and detoxification in the liver.
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Dec 17, 2023
How do Kupffer cells contribute to liver disease?
Overstimulated Kupffer cells can contribute to liver diseases like cirrhosis and hepatitis.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 17, 2023
Are hepatocytes the majority of liver cells?
Yes, hepatocytes constitute about 70-85% of the liver’s cytoplasmic mass.
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Dec 17, 2023
What happens when hepatocytes are damaged?
Damage to hepatocytes can lead to liver dysfunction and diseases like fatty liver and cirrhosis.
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Dec 17, 2023
Do Kupffer cells secrete immune mediators?
Yes, they secrete cytokines and other mediators in response to pathogens.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 17, 2023
What differentiates Kupffer cells from other macrophages?
Their specific adaptation and location in the liver distinguish them.
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Dec 17, 2023
What are Kupffer cells?
Kupffer cells are liver-specific macrophages that play a role in immune defense and pathogen filtration.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 17, 2023
How are hepatocytes involved in nutrient regulation?
Hepatocytes regulate and store nutrients like glucose, fats, and vitamins.
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Dec 17, 2023
Can Kupffer cells affect iron metabolism?
Yes, they play a role in iron storage and metabolism.
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Dec 17, 2023
How do hepatocytes affect drug metabolism?
Hepatocytes metabolize and detoxify various drugs and toxins.
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Dec 17, 2023
How do Kupffer cells respond to liver injury?
They initiate immune responses and can contribute to inflammation.
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Dec 17, 2023
How do hepatocytes contribute to glucose homeostasis?
They store and release glucose to maintain blood sugar levels.
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Dec 17, 2023
Do hepatocytes have a role in hormone production?
Yes, they are involved in the synthesis and breakdown of hormones.
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Can hepatocytes regenerate?
Yes, hepatocytes have a significant capacity for regeneration.
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Are Kupffer cells unique to the liver?
Yes, they are specialized macrophages found only in the liver.
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Dec 17, 2023
What is the role of hepatocytes in protein synthesis?
Hepatocytes synthesize various proteins, including albumin and clotting factors.
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Dec 17, 2023
Are Kupffer cells involved in the breakdown of red blood cells?
Yes, they help in the breakdown and recycling of old red blood cells.
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Dec 17, 2023
What is the significance of bile production by hepatocytes?
Bile aids in the digestion and absorption of dietary fats.
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Dec 17, 2023
Can Kupffer cells capture foreign substances?
Yes, they are effective in capturing and digesting foreign substances in the blood.
Shumaila Saeed
Dec 17, 2023
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About Author
Written by
Shumaila SaeedShumaila Saeed, an expert content creator with 6 years of experience, specializes in distilling complex topics into easily digestible comparisons, shining a light on the nuances that both inform and educate readers with clarity and accuracy.
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