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Which in vitro models could be best used to study hepatocyte polarity?
Author(s) -
Decaens Catherine,
Durand Marjorie,
Grosse Brigitte,
Cassio Doris
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
biology of the cell
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.543
H-Index - 85
eISSN - 1768-322X
pISSN - 0248-4900
DOI - 10.1042/bc20070127
Subject(s) - hepatocyte , endoplasmic reticulum , polarity (international relations) , biology , golgi apparatus , microbiology and biotechnology , cell polarity , cytoskeleton , in vitro , cell , biochemistry
The correct functioning of the liver is ensured by the setting and the maintenance of hepatocyte polarity. The complex polarity of the hepatocyte is characterized by the existence of several basolateral and apical poles per cell. Many in vitro models are available for studying hepatocyte polarity, but which are the more suitable? To answer this question, we aimed to identify criteria which determine the typical hepatocyte polarity. Therefore, we compiled a range of protein markers of membrane domains in rat hepatocytes and investigated their involvement in hepatocytic functions. Then, we focused on the relationship between hepatic functions and the cytoskeleton, Golgi apparatus and endoplasmic reticulum. Subsequently, we compared different cell lines expressing hepatocyte polarity. Finally, to demonstrate the usefulness of some of these lines, we presented new data on endoplasmic reticulum organization in relation to polarity.