Hepatocyte function and extracellular matrix geometry: long‐term culture in a sandwich configuration

Adult rat hepatocytes cultured in a collagen sandwich system maintained normal morphology and a physiological rate of albumin secretion for at least 42 days. Hepatocytes cultured on a single layer of collagen gel essentially ceased albumin secretion within 1 wk but could recover function with the overlay of a second layer of collagen gel. This culture configuration more closely mimics the hepatocytes' in vivo environment and provides a simple method for their long‐term maintenance.— D unn , J. C. Y.; Y armush , M. L.; K oebe , H. G.; T ompkins , R. G. Hepatocyte function and extracellular matrix geometry: long‐term culture in a sandwich configuration. FASEB J. 3: 174‐177; 1989.