What is the role of Kupffer cells in the liver?

Kupffer cells play a critical role in the liver as specialized macrophages that are pivotal in filtering the blood. These cells are located in the liver's sinusoids and are responsible for the phagocytosis of pathogens, dead cells, and other debris that enter the bloodstream from the digestive tract. As part of the immune defense system, Kupffer cells help maintain the overall health of the liver and contribute to the body's immune response by recognizing and eliminating harmful substances.

Their role in filtering blood is essential for preventing infections and detoxifying the blood, effectively serving as the body's first line of defense against potential threats coming from the gut. This process is crucial because the liver receives a large volume of blood rich in nutrients and potential toxins from the gastrointestinal tract. Kupffer cells ensure that this blood is adequately filtered before it is processed further by hepatic cells.

The other options do not accurately describe the function of Kupffer cells. While bile production is handled by hepatocytes, glycogen storage is performed by specialized liver cells as well. The synthesis of plasma proteins is also a function attributed to hepatocytes. Therefore, the primary and correct role of Kupffer cells is indeed to act as specialized macrophages, making them essential for maintaining hepatobiliary function and overall systemic