Acoustic-holography-patterned primary hepatocytes possess liver functions

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Tissue Engineering
• Cell Biology

Background:

• Acoustic holography (AH) is a promising technique for cell patterning and creating 3D in vitro models.
• Limited understanding exists regarding cell function changes after AH application.
• Replicating complex physiological and pathological processes using only cell lines is challenging.

Purpose of the Study:

• To construct a liver-shaped tissue sample using acoustical holographic lattice and primary hepatocytes.
• To evaluate the liver functions of primary hepatocytes patterned using AH.
• To explore the potential of AH for long-term in vitro culture of primary cells.

Main Methods:

• Employed an acoustical holographic lattice to assemble primary mouse hepatocytes.
• Constructed a cell cluster matrix to form a liver-shaped tissue sample.
• Evaluated liver functions of AH-patterned primary hepatocytes and compared them to 2D and traditional 3D cultures.

Main Results:

• The AH-patterned model successfully assembled primary hepatocytes into a liver-shaped tissue.
• The patterned model exhibited numerous self-assembled spheroids.
• Superior multifarious core hepatocyte functions were observed in the AH model compared to 2D and traditional 3D cultures.

Conclusions:

• Acoustic holography provides a robust protocol for long-term in vitro culture of primary cells.
• AH-patterned primary hepatocytes demonstrate enhanced liver functions, suitable for complex 3D models.
• AH holds significant potential for disease research, drug testing, and organ replacement therapy.