Induction of virulence factors, apoptosis, and cytokines in precision-cut hamster liver slices infected with Entamoeba histolytica

► An alternative model for the study of hepatic amoebiasis is demonstrated. ► The model is based in the ex vivo infection of precision-cut hamster liver slices. ► Infected slices show histopathological lesions found in animal models. ► Cysteine proteinases 1, and 5, and amoebapore are expressed in infected liver slices. ► In this system Entamoeba histolytica induces inflammatory cytokines, apoptosis, and necrosis.