Diazepam metabolism and albumin secretion of porcine hepatocytes in collagen-sandwich after cryopreservation

Cryopreserved porcine hepatocytes in collagen cultures secreted albumin (up to 98 ± 3 g ml^–1; non-cryopreserved controls: 100 ± 9 g ml^–1) and metabolised diazepam (67.5% ± 7.5% of initially applied diazepam are metabolised; 77.5% ± 10% in non-cryopreserved controls) for up to 14 days after thawing. The cultures resembled the recently developed flat membrane bioreactors. Addition of 5% (v/v) serum did not effect diazepam metabolism. Hepatocytes in collagen-sandwich cultures offer a storable liver support system for potential clinical use.