Effect of oxygen concentration and selected protocol factors on viability and gene expression of mouse liver slices

Precision cut liver slices (PCLSs) are widely used as a model to study hepatotoxicity. For culturing of PCLS diverse protocols are used which could affect slices viability and results. We aimed to identify the most optimal culture protocol for mouse PCLS. Slices were cultured for 24h under different concentrations of serum, glucose, insulin, and oxygen. Thereafter, slices viability was assessed by biochemical methods. Transcriptome analysis was performed to identify changes introduced by culture at different oxygen concentrations (20%, 40%, 60%, and 80% of oxygen). Medium composition did not affect the slices viability. Although metabolic competence was unaffected by oxygen concentrations, culturing at 80% of oxygen yielded slices with the best biochemical characteristics. The comparison of uncultured vs. cultured slices revealed 2524 genes to be differentially expressed. Genes involved in drug metabolism, peroxisomal and mitochondrial functions were down-regulated while several adaptive/stress response processes were up-regulated. Moreover, 80% of oxygen was the most favorable condition with respect to maintenance of expression of genes involved in drug and energy metabolism. The outcome of this study indicates that mouse PCLS are a valuable tool in research on hepatic functions and toxicity, particularly if they are cultured under a controlled oxygen concentration of 80%.