What is bile caniculi?

Bile canaliculi are small ducts or channels that transport bile from hepatocytes (liver cells) to bile ducts in the liver. They are lined by specialized hepatocyte cells that secrete bile, consisting of bile acids, cholesterol, bilirubin, and other substances. Bile canaliculi play a critical role in the metabolism and removal of waste products from the liver, ensuring the proper functioning of the digestive system. If bile canaliculi become blocked or damaged, it can lead to liver diseases such as cholestasis, cirrhosis, and liver failure. Clinically, bile canaliculi can be visualized and studied using techniques such as light microscopy, immunohistochemistry, and electron microscopy.