Hepatocellular Hydration: Signal Transduction and Functional Implications

In recent years it has become increasingly evident that cell volume represents a major determinant of cellular function in a variety of cell types. In mammalian cells, hydration may change dynamically in response to hormones, ethanol, aniso-osmotic environments, oxidative stress or by cumulative substrate uptake. The aim of this review is to provide an outline of our current knowledge regarding the impact of cell volume on liver function. Special emphasis will be placed on the regulation of proteolysis and secretory pathways in hepatocytes. Furthermore, mechanisms implicated in sensing changes of hydration will be briefly discussed.