Mouse hepatocyte synthesis and induction of the acute phase reactant: serum amyloid P-component

A methodology for obtaining reproducible in vitro induction of the synthesis of the acute phase reactant serum amyloid P-component (SAP) by purified mouse hepatocytes was established. Optimal hepatocyte culture conditions for the induction and synthesis of SAP required certain hormones, a substratum for cell attachment, and activated macrophages. Leibowitz L15 medium had to be supplemented with dexamethasone, indomethacin, insulin, glucose, and fetal bovine serum. Purified mouse IL 1 could substitute for activated macrophages in the induction of SAP. Hepatocytes were allowed to adhere to a collagen matrix to enhance both cell viability and SAP synthesis induced by IL 1. Elicited macrophages cultured with hepatocytes were capable of augmenting SAP synthesis in the presence of IL 1.