Role of cerebral endothelial cells in the astrocyte swelling and brain edema associated with acute hepatic encephalopathy

► Ammonia stimulates endothelial cells (ECs) to release astrocyte swelling factors. ► Cultured ECs release free radicals and activate NF-κB when exposed to ammonia. ► CM from ammonia, LPS and cytokine-treated ECs potentiates astrocyte swelling. ► NF-κB activation is increased in brain ECs in acute liver failure.