What are the shipping and storage conditions for cryopreserved hepatocytes? Cryopreserved hepatocytes are shipped in the vapor phase of liquid nitrogen contained in a non-hazardous container called a dry LN2 vapor shipper or dewar.  The internal temperature of the dewar is maintained between -140°C and -160°C, generally for up to 5-7 days if unopened.  Once hepatocytes are received and transferred to a long term LN2 dewar  in the laboratory, dewars are returned to the address listed on the pre-paid return shipping label for reuse.

Upon receipt of a shipment of cryopreserved hepatocytes, carefully and quickly transfer the vials to the vapor phase of liquid nitrogen and keep at -135°C or below until use.   Any increase in the temperature of the cryovials before an experiment threatens the viability, functionality, and activity of the hepatocytes.

Do cryopreserved hepatocytes have an expiration date? If properly stored cryopreserved hepatocytes can be stored in the vapor phase of liquid nitrogen (-135°C or below) for several years.  This makes them ideal for a series of experiments conducted over many months.

After thawing, how long can hepatocytes be kept in culture? Unlike immortalized cell lines, hepatocytes are primary cells that cannot be cultured indefinitely.  The use of thawed suspension hepatocytes should be limited to short-term experiments with a maximum of 4-6 hour incubations.  Plateable hepatocytes, which attach to collagen-coated plasticware in culture media, are generally metabolically active for 5-7 days.

Who should I contact if I am looking for hepatocytes with particular characteristics? Our hepatocytes are prequalified and sold according to application, such as induction, short-term metabolism, and transporter uptake.  If you require cells with particular P450 values or donor specifications, contact our Hepatic Biology Tech Support Team at hepaticproducts@thermofisher.com  or (866) 952-3559 to help with specific lot recommendations.