Telocytes and interstitial cells of Cajal in the biliary system

A novel type of interstitial tissue cells in the biliary tree termed telocytes ( TC s), formerly known as interstitial Cajal‐like cells ( ICLC s), exhibits very particular features which unequivocally distinguish these cells from interstitial cells of Cajal ( ICC s) and other interstitial cell types. Current research substantiates the existence of TC s and ICC s in the biliary system (gallbladder, extrahepatic bile duct, cystic duct, common bile duct and sphincter of Oddi). Here, we review the distribution, morphology and ultrastructure of TC s and ICC s in the biliary tree, with emphasis on their presumptive roles in physiological and pathophysiological processes.