Role of endoplasmic reticulum stress in the pathogenesis of liver diseases

Most of proteins,carbohydrates and lipids are synthesized in endoplasmic reticulum(ER).ER is the main storage place of intracellular calcium and is closely related to material transportation,exchange and detoxication. Endoplasmic reticulum stress (ERS) is a self-defence mechanism,but strong and long-lasting ERS leads to irreversible cell injury. ER is rich in hepatic cells. Many liver diseases such as viral hepatitis,alcohol liver disease,drug-induced hepatitis,nonalcoholic fatty liver diseases are related to ERS. This review addressed many aspects including ER physiological function,inducing factors of ERS,each stage of ERS and effect of ERS on various liver diseases.