Abcellute's preserved hepatocyte technologyThe technology developed by Abcellute’s scientists means that fresh hepatocyte cells can be used successfully over 5 days from isolation. This is achieved through the immersion of the cells in a unique matrix which coats and protects them. The metabolic function of the cells is preserved and they remain in their original native state. Prior to use, the cells are re-activated and subsequently behave as normal fresh cells, retaining their ‘intact whole organ’ characteristics.
Currently, research scientists must work within the constraints imposed by the limited survivability of cells, knowing that within a few hours of being isolate, viability, diminishes greatly. Refrigeration (+4°C) slows down, but is unable to halt the irreversible metabolic changes which occur within the cell. Some researchers have resorted to using cells stored frozen in liquid nitrogen (cryopreservation). Under these extreme conditions, some of the cells will survive for long periods, but the subsequent yield of the thawed cells is very low and many of the natural metabolic systems are considerably diminished in activity, resulting in the use of a cell which does not represent all of the natural characteristics of a living cell.
Use of fresh cells isolated and preserved using the Abcellute matrix allows improved modelling of in-vivo characteristics and more effective toxicological evaluations of potential new therapeutic drugs with the added advantages of convenience, ease of use and retention of metabolic activities. |