In chronic liver diseases (CLD), when native hepatocytes enter replicative senescence, new hepatocytes are produced via differentiation of reactive cholangiocytes, also known as ductular reaction – DR - cells. However, this mechanism alone is insufficient to prevent liver failure, emphasizing the need for a deeper understanding to enhance its therapeutic potential. We hypothesize that signals driving DR differentiation into hepatocytes reside in the local niche, particularly extracellular matrix (ECM) composition and neighboring cells.
Journal of Hepatology published a clinical update in Research Highlights on 27 Mar 2026.
The item focuses on Liver Sinusoidal Endothelial Cells and Laminin dictate cholangiocytes’ fate in chronic liver disease.
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