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Differentiation of embryonic stem cells into hepatocytes: Biological functions and therapeutic application
Author(s) -
Yamamoto Hanako,
Quinn Gary,
Asari Akira,
Yamanokuchi Hiroko,
Teratani Takumi,
Terada Masaaki,
Ochiya Takahiro
Publication year - 2003
Publication title -
hepatology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 5.488
H-Index - 361
eISSN - 1527-3350
pISSN - 0270-9139
DOI - 10.1053/jhep.2003.50202
Subject(s) - hepatocyte , embryonic stem cell , microbiology and biotechnology , carbon tetrachloride , stem cell , transplantation , regeneration (biology) , biology , in vitro , liver regeneration , cellular differentiation , cell , kosr , adult stem cell , pathology , chemistry , gene , medicine , biochemistry , organic chemistry
Abstract Embryonic stem (ES) cells provide a unique source for tissue regeneration. We examined whether mouse ES cells can efficiently differentiate into transplantable hepatocytes. ES cells were implanted into mouse livers 24 hours after carbon tetrachloride intoxication; ES‐derived cells with several hepatocyte‐cell‐markers were generated. They were able to grow in vitro and showed morphology consistent with typical mature hepatocytes and expressed hepatocyte‐specific genes. After transplantation into the carbon tetrachloride‐injured mouse liver, ES‐derived green fluorescent protein‐positive cells were incorporated into liver tissue and rescued mice from hepatic injury. No teratoma formation was observed in the transplant recipients. In conclusion, ES cells can provide a valuable tool for studying the molecular basis for differentiation of hepatocytes and form the basis for cell therapies.