Sinusoidal endothelial cells are highly specialized cells, which play important roles in the transfer of solutes between the serum and hepatocytes, as well as in the clearance of soluble macromolecules. Sinusoidal endothelial cells are characterized by a number of specialized features, including clustered fenestrations that may facilitate transfer of factors between the sinusoidal lumen and the surface of the hepatocytes.
The sinusoidal endothelial cells gradually adopt the functional and structural characteristics of mature sinusoids, a change that correlates with modified expression of extracellular matrix components that may influence the maturation process. Although the molecular mechanisms that control growth and maturation of sinusoidal endothelial cells are not well defined, several studies suggest the role of Wnt signaling in their proliferation and differentiation.
EMBRYONIC DEVELOPMENT & STEM CELL COMPENDIUM
