Functional study of hepatocytes cultured in sandwich configuration / 中国普通外科杂志

ABSTRACT

Objective To develop a new culture system in which hepatocytes can restore in-vivo like function. Methods Sandwich configuration was used for the culture of hepatocytes, and protein synthesis as well as P 450-b ,albumin mRNA expression by in situ hybridization was studied. ResultsStable and gradually increasing protein synthesis and high level of P 450-b , albumin mRNA expression were observed. In contrast, protein secretion of hepatocytes cultured in conventional single collagen culture system was low and decreased until approximately zero seven days after, and mRNA expression of P 450-b ,albumin was low. Conclusions Sandwich configuration in which cell polarity of hepatocytes is reestablished like in vivo situation.