INTRAHEPATIC CHOLESTASIS AS A CANALICULAR MOTILITY DISORDER - EVIDENCE USING CYTOCHALASIN

  • 1 January 1983
    • journal article
    • research article
    • Vol. 48  (2) , 205-211
Abstract
A rich network of actin-containing microfilaments are associated with the plasma membrane of the liver cells [from rats]. These filaments are especially numerous in the pericanalicular region. Recently, active contractions of bile canaliculi were observed in normal coupled isolated hepatocytes. This motility behavior is abolished by cytochalasins B and D. Other cytoplasmic contractile movements are also reduced or lost after a brief initial period of enhanced surface activity with the formation of zeiotic blebs. The lack of contractile activity of bile canaliculi is accompanied by the gradual dilation of canalicular lumina. Since there is overwhelming evidence that the functional effects of the cytochalasins on cell motility are due to their effects on actin filaments, the altered canalicular contractility observed apparently is due to the effects of cytochalasin on pericanalicular actin filaments. If bile canalicular contractility is a requirement for normal bile flow, then interference with this mechanism may be a factor in the pathogenesis of some types of intrahepatic cholestasis.