Bile canaliculus

Definition

A bile canaliculus is a narrow, tube-like structure formed by the membrane of adjacent liver cells (hepatocytes) that collect bile. It acts as a conduit for bile to flow from the hepatocytes where it's produced to the bile ducts leading to the gallbladder and intestine.

Related terms

Hepatocytes:

These are the primary liver cells responsible for producing bile, among other functions, essential for digestion and detoxification.

Gallbladder:

A small organ that stores and concentrates bile from the liver, releasing it into the intestine to aid in the digestion of fats.

Bile Ducts: These are larger tubular passages that carry bile from the liver and gallbladder to the duodenum, part of the small intestine, for digestion