Vessel- and target cell-specific actions of endothelin-1 and endothelin-3 in rat liver

Endothelin (sub A) receptors on Ito cells are responsible for the effects of exogenous endothelin-1 (ET-1) on sinusoid constriction in normal livers. Endotheline (sub B) receptors in portal venules are responsible for presinusoidal effects. The contraction of Ito cells and Kupffer cells are responsible for Et-1-induced sinusoidal constriction. Isolated rat livers and high-power intravital microscope were used in the study.