[Apoptosis as a mechanism of tissue injury in hepatobiliary diseases].

BACKGROUND

Cell death by apoptosis is a fundamental biologic process involved in many physiologic and pathophysiologic processes in the liver.

OBJECTIVE

To review the process of apoptosis, its cellular mechanisms, its regulation by external factors, and its role in pathophysiologic process and specific diseases of the liver.

CONCLUSION

An understanding of the cellular mechanisms of apoptosis and their dysregulation during pathophysiologic disturbances will help in understanding human liver diseases. The modulation of apoptosis may lead to novel therapeutic strategies for the treatment of a wide range of liver diseases.