Knockout of Histidine Decarboxylase (HDC) Reduces Hepatic Fibrosis in Bile Duct Ligated (BDL) Mice

Histamine (HA) is formed by the conversion of histidine by histidine decarboxylase (HDC). Cholangiocytes (i) express HDC; (ii) secrete HA; and (iii) proliferate after HA treatment. In cholestatic rodents, there is enhanced biliary hyperplasia and fibrosis.