Abstract: Objective To evaluate whether polyethersulfone (PES) membrane is capable of supporting hepatocyte growth and suitable to be used as the bioartificial liver support systems. Methods The structure of PES plate membrane was observed microscopically. HepG2 cells grew on the PES membrane, and their morphology, growth curve, albumin secretion and the transformation by pentoxyresorufin were examined. Results Prepared PES plate membrane demonstrated a single-layer skin, porous and asymmetric structure. HepG2 cells cultured on PES membrane showed a typical growth curve and proliferated to 6-7 folds after 8 days. These cells clustered together and covered the surface of the membrane, even extended into the micropores. LDH leakage had no difference between the HepG2 cells growing on the membrane and those of the control group. HepG2 cells growing on the membrane showed higher protein biosynthesis and biotransformation functions. Conclusion The PES membrane is a substrate suitable for hepatocytes growing on it. It may be useful for the construction of hollow fiber bioreactors.

Key words: Single-layer skin, HepG2 cells, Hollow fiber