An integrated system optimized to support long-term cultures of differentiated hepatocytes. The system contains a specially formulated, serum-free medium supplemented with hormones, growth factors, and defined nutrients, and BD BioCoat™ Matrigel™ Matrix Cellware.

A system, including BD Matrigel™ Basement membrane mix, organized for differentiation:

• Maintains in vitro expression of cytochrome p450 (CYP1A1) for at least three weeks
• Restores expression of C/EBPα and immediate early growth response transcription factors
• Promotes rounded, clustered morphology and polarization of hepatocytes
• Provides a serum-free environment for control over experimental variables
• Maintains hepatocyte viability for at least three weeks
• Allows studies of liver-specific function to be carried out twice as long as with Collagen I gels

Complete protocol provides:

• Standardized procedures
• Capability for immediate start-up

Applications:

BD BioCoat™ Hepatocyte Differentiation Environment enables:

• Culture of hepatocytes for extended periods under serum-free conditions without the loss of cellular functions
• Construction of in vitro models of liver cells for a number of applications