Resident immune cells lining the liver's blood sinusoids that engulf bacteria and old red blood cells.
Structure
Kupffer cells are specialized macrophages with star-shaped extensions that span the sinusoidal lumen. They make up the largest population of fixed macrophages in the body.
Function
Because portal blood from the gut passes through the liver first, Kupffer cells encounter many bacteria and endotoxins. They engulf and destroy these threats before blood reaches the systemic circulation.
Iron recycling
By breaking down old red blood cells, Kupffer cells help recover iron for reuse in new hemoglobin.
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Kupffer Cells starts with K and ends with S. Browse other body parts along the same letter.
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