AML12 Cells

AML12 cells, also known as Alpha Mouse Liver 12 cells, are a non-tumorigenic epithelial cell line derived from the liver of a transgenic mouse. These cells were initially developed to provide a suitable in vitro model for studying the hepatocyte function and liver biology of the adult mouse. AML12 cells express characteristics typical of differentiated hepatocytes, including the production of albumin, transferrin, and other liver-specific proteins, making them an invaluable resource for research in toxicology, drug metabolism, and liver disease.

The cell line was established from hepatocytes isolated from a mouse harboring a transgene for human transforming growth factor alpha (TGF-alpha), under the control of the mouse metallothionein-I promoter. This genetic alteration contributes to the immortalization of the cells without disrupting their differentiated state. AML12 cells maintain a stable phenotype and karyotype under standard cell culture conditions, which includes a unique requirement for dexamethasone and insulin-transferrin-selenium in the growth medium to promote proliferation and maintain hepatocyte-specific functions.