Evidence for the production of type I collagen by adult rat hepatocytes in primary culture: immunohistochemical observations1

Abstract
The production of type I collagen by adult rat hepatocytes in primary culture was confirmed immunohistochemically using antibodies to rat albumin and type I collagen. The isolated hepatocytes formed a hepatic cord-like structure when cultured for 2 days and showed positive reaction with anti-albumin antibody, but not with anti-type I collagen antibody. After 8 days of culture, the cells turned to show positive reactions with anti-type I collagen antibody as well as anti-albumin antibody. Hepatocytes have apparently acquired an ability to produce type I collagen during a period of 8 days in primary culture (cell differentiation), preserving the capability for albumin production.