LSECs are specialized endothelial cells with a key role in maintaining hepatic homeostasis. They regulate the exchange of substances, immunity, and the proper functioning of the hepatic sinusoids, small channels through which blood circulates within the organ. When their function is compromised, it can trigger a chain of processes that promote the development and progression of various liver diseases.
The current review, led by Jordi Gracia-Sancho, head of the IDIBAPS research group, and Anabel Fernández-Iglesias, a researcher in the same group, both researchers at CIBEREHD, analyzes in detail how this dysfunction occurs in contexts as diverse as metabolic liver disease, alcohol-induced liver disease, and acute liver injury. According to the research team, the loss of normal LSEC function is a common and early mechanism in many of these pathologies. When this occurs, the cells become less permeable, inflammatory processes are activated, and factors that promote fibrosis and increased pressure in the liver are released.
The review also points to new therapeutic strategies that aim to preserve or restore LSEC function, including molecules targeting specific signaling pathways and nanotherapy systems for more precise drug delivery.
Despite significant advances in tools such as single-cell sequencing, organoids, and liver-on-a-chip systems, many questions remain about the biology of these cells in disease states. Therefore, the authors emphasize the need for further research to develop more specific and effective treatments.
Overall, this work reinforces the idea that a better understanding of LSECs is key to advancing toward more personalized medicine and designing treatments that target the initial mechanisms of liver disease.
