HepG2 Cells Catalogue number: 300198

HepG2 Cells: A Key Model for Liver Cancer and Drug Metabolism Research

HepG2 cells, a hepatoblastoma-derived cell line, are essential in biological research, particularly in the study of liver cancer. Isolated in 1975, the origin of the HepG2 cell line was initially misclassified as hepatocellular carcinoma. However, it was later recognized as originating from hepatoblastoma, resolving the previous scientific ambiguity surrounding its classification.

Key Features of HepG2 Cells
HepG2 cells are widely used as an in vitro model for primary human hepatocytes due to their ability to proliferate indefinitely, stable phenotype, and ease of manipulation. These cells share several hepatic functions with human liver cells, including drug metabolism and transport protein expression. Although they exhibit reduced expression of some metabolic functions compared to primary hepatocytes, HepG2 cells are invaluable in liver cancer research and the study of liver function, making them a crucial model for both basic and applied scientific studies.

Applications in Drug Metabolism and Toxicity Studies
Despite their altered expression of certain liver-specific functions, HepG2 cells are frequently utilized in studies of drug metabolism and toxicity. They are especially valuable in investigating how drugs and xenobiotics (foreign compounds like drugs and carcinogens) are processed by the liver. However, one limitation is their reduced expression of cytochrome P450 enzymes, which play a critical role in metabolizing these substances. This reduced enzyme activity can affect the accuracy of HepG2 cells as models for drug metabolism and the elimination of xenobiotics, which is crucial in understanding liver function.

Role in Liver Cancer Research
HepG2 cells, originating from hepatoblastoma, provide significant insight into liver cancer mechanisms. Along with other hepatoma cell lines, such as Hep3B and HepaRG, HepG2 cells help enhance our understanding of liver carcinoma, making them important tools for cancer research. Their ability to grow quickly and maintain an epithelial-like morphology makes them an ideal choice for liver-related research, including studies on drug metabolism and liver toxicity.

Versatility and Applications
HepG2 cells are versatile and widely used in generating stable cell lines, transfection studies, and in drug metabolism and hepatotoxicity investigations. Their utility extends beyond conventional cell culture applications, contributing to advanced research techniques such as 3D cell culture, high-throughput screening, and toxicology studies. HepG2 cells continue to be an invaluable resource for exploring liver cancer, drug metabolism, and liver function in general.

Conclusion
In summary, the HepG2 cell line plays a pivotal role in liver cancer research and drug metabolism studies. Despite some limitations in the expression of certain liver-specific functions, HepG2 cells remain an essential model for understanding hepatocellular carcinoma and the liver’s role in drug processing. Their versatility in various research applications makes them a cornerstone in the field of hepatic studies.