Leukocyte transmigration in inflamed liver: A role for endothelial cell-selective adhesion molecule.

Background/aims: This study was designed to investigate the role of endothelial cell-selective adhesion molecule (ESAM), a recently discovered receptor expressed in endothelial tight junctions and platelets, for leukocyte migration in inflamed liver.

Methods: The role of ESAM for leukocyte migration in the liver was analyzed using ESAM-deficient mice in a model of warm hepatic ischemia-reperfusion (90min/30-360min).

Results: As shown by immunostaining, ESAM is expressed in sinusoids as well as in venules and is not upregulated upon I/R.