It is only during the last decade that the functions of sinusoidal
endothelial cells, Kupffer cells, hepatic stellate cells, pit cells and
other intrahepatic lymphocytes have been better understood. The
development of methods for isolation and co-culturing various types of
liver cells has established that they communicate and cooperate via
secretion of various intercellular mediators. This monograph summarizes
multiple data that suggest the important role of cellular cross-talk for
the functions of both normal and diseased liver. Special features of the
book include concise presentation of the majority of detailed data in 19
tables. Original schemes allow for the clear illustration of complicated
intercellular relationships. This is the first ever presentation of the
newly emerging field of liver biology, which is important for hepatic
function in health and disease and opens new avenues for therapeutic
interventions.