Human Liver Fibroblasts

Description

Human Liver Fibroblasts are spindle-shaped mesenchymal cells isolated from normal adult liver parenchyma. They exhibit adherent growth and express vimentin and Thy-1 (CD90). Karyotype analysis shows a normal human diploid complement. Functionally, the cells synthesize extracellular-matrix proteins—predominantly collagens types I and III and fibronectin—under basal conditions and are strongly up-regulated by TGF-β1, IL-1β, or IL-4 signaling pathways, whereas IFN-γ suppresses collagen output, reflecting fibroblast response to liver damage. These activities model hepatic wound healing and fibrogenesis relevant to liver cirrhosis and fibroblasts as well as chronic hepatitis progression. Cultures are non-tumorigenic, display a finite lifespan and cannot be serially passaged. To ensure the quality of these primary cells, repeated freeze-thaw cycles are not recommended due to the fragile nature of these cells. The cells undergo rigorous screening and isolation procedures, and are rigorously tested to ensure they are free of contamination from HIV-1, HBV, HCV, Syphilis, Mycoplasma, Fungi, Yeast, and Bacteria.