Differential integrin expression facilitates isolation of human fetal pancreatic epithelial cells

We have studied the expression of the beta 1 family of integrins in fetal and adult human pancreas. Immunohistochemical staining with a monoclonal anti-beta 1 antibody revealed that the epithelial cells of the human fetal pancreas express high amounts of beta 1 integrin, while the pancreatic stromal cells express substantially lower amounts. Islets of Langerhans from human adult pancreas also expressed high amounts of beta 1 integrin. Taking advantage of the extremely high affinity binding between the invasin protein of Yersinia pseudotuberculosis and many beta 1 integrins, we have been able to isolate highly enriched populations of fetal pancreatic epithelial cells. Epithelial-enriched cell populations retain the ability to differentiate into mature endocrine cells following transplantation into nude mice.