Membrane antigen expression of syngeneically but heterotopically transplanted hepatocytes in rats.

The expression of membrane antigens on rat hepatocytes transplanted syngeneically and heterotopically was analyzed immunohistochemically using monoclonal antibodies against rat hepatocytes. Isolated adult and fetal hepatocytes were able to survive in the spleen, salivary gland, thymus, or subcapsular region of the kidney for various periods after transplantation. Fairly clear expression of HAM2, 4, and 8 antigens was observed on hepatocytes transplanted into syngeneic spleen, suggesting that the cells might be functionally equivalent to hepatocytes in situ. HAM4 antigen was localized specifically on the newly formed bile-canalicular faces of hepatocytes. The expression of HAM2 (MHC class 1) antigen on the transplanted hepatocytes appeared much stronger on the side facing lymphoid tissues, than on the other faces, suggesting that some immunological reactions may take place between hepatocytes and lymphoid tissue. HAM8 antigen, which is localized on gap junctions between neighboring hepatocytes in rat liver, was also recognized between transplanted hepatocytes. In salivary glands where hepatocytes were transplanted, bile-canaliculus-like structures were observed not only between neighboring hepatocytes but also between hepatocytes and salivary acinar cells, suggesting good interaction between the two different epithelial cell types. Hepatocytes transplanted into thymus appeared viable, but most showed fatty degeneration. Some healthy hepatocytes survived in the interlobular connective tissue and the thymic cortical tissue. When fetal hepatocytes were transplanted heterotopically, they formed a mass consisting of hepatocytes and bile duct-like structures 7 wk after transplantation. The inoculated hepatocytes possessed HAM4 antigen, which was not recognized on fetal hepatocytes at day 14 of gestation. These results suggest that transplanted hepatocytes can grow in any syngeneic tissues, and that a common feature on such hepatocytes is a rich reticulin fiber network, visualized by silver staining. To judge the state of transplanted hepatocytes, monoclonal antibodies against rat hepatocyte surface antigens might therefore be a useful tool.