Extracellular matrix configuration modulates TGF-β effects in primary hepatocytes

In vitro models to study TGF-β effects on the liver include cell lines, primary fetal cells and primary hepatocytes, the last resembling closer most of the phenotipic features of an intact liver. We compared the behaviour of primary mosue hepatocytes cultured on collagen type I as a dry monolyer or as gel sandwich and their response to TGF-β. Hepatocytes cultured on dry matrix displayed a typical cuboidal shape for the initial 24h, but started to spread and dedifferentiate constantly thereafter. Bile canaliculi was absent in this culture condition. Cells cultured in collagen sandwich started to form bile canalic…