Inflammatory cytokines produced in response to various infectious and non-i
nfectious stimuli are potent inducers of intrahepatic cholestasis (inflamma
tion-induced cholestasis). The cholestatic effect of cytokines results main
ly from inhibition of expression and function of hepatocellular transport s
ystems which normally mediate hepatic uptake and biliary excretion of bile
salts and various non-bile salt organic anions (e.g. bilirubin). These cyto
kine effects are reversible and bile secretory function is restored upon di
sappearance of the inflammatory injury. This review summarizes the clinical
, pathophysiological and molecular aspects of inflammation-induced cholesta
sis. (C) 1999 Blackwell Science Asia Pry Ltd.