Developments in research on interstitial Cajal-like cells in the biliary tract.

INTRODUCTION: Interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs) are a special type of interstitial cells located in the gastrointestinal tract muscles. They are closely related to smooth muscle cells and neurons, participate in gastrointestinal motility and nerve signal transmission, and are pacemaker cells for gastrointestinal electrical activity. Research interest in ICCs has continuously grown since they were first discovered in 1893. Later, researchers discovered that they are also present in other organs, including the biliary tract, urethra, bladder, etc.; these cells were named interstitial Cajal-like cells (ICLCs), and attempts have been made to explain their relationships with certain diseases. AREAS COVERED: This review paper summarizes the morphology, identification, classification, function, and distribution of ICLCs in the biliary tract and their relationship to biliary tract diseases. EXPERT OPINION: Based on the function and distribution of ICLCs in the biliary tract system, ICLCs will provide a more reliable theoretical basis for the mechanisms of pathogenesis of and treatments for biliary tract diseases.