Immunohistochemical evaluation of the activation of hepatic progenitor cells and their niche in feline lymphocytic cholangitis

ObjectivesThe aim of the study was to compare the hepatic progenitor cell niche in healthy feline livers and the liver tissue of cats with lymphocytic cholangitis.MethodsImmunohistochemical stainings for vimentin, laminin, beta (β)-catenin and Notch1 intracellular domain (NICD) were used on formalin-fixed liver biopsies from affected (n = 12) and unaffected cats (n = 2).ResultsAll immunohistochemical markers used were expressed in more cells, or more intensely, in the liver tissue of cats with lymphocytic cholangitis than in the liver tissue of unaffected cats.Conclusions and relevanceEnhanced expression of vimentin, laminin, cytoplasmic/nuclear β-catenin and NICD in liver biopsies from cats with lymphocytic cholangitis indicates that the hepatic progenitor cell (HPC) niche is remodelled and activated. HPCs might provide insights into new regenerative treatment options for lymphocytic cholangitis in cats in the future.