HepG2 cells are distinct, non-tumor forming cells from the human liver with diagnosed hepatocellular carcinoma. Although these cells are transformed (immortal) and have an abnormal chromosome number, they can be used in most assays. These cells have a unique morphology and will grow in 3D (on top of one another in vitro), and have been used in studies investigating hepatocytes. They respond to growth hormones and secrete similar proteins to hepatocytes.

Hope this helps. Tim

Yes, HepG2 do react on Glucagon with PKA activation.

Thank you for your prompt reply.

The reason why I doubt this is that in many publications, a stable human GCGR expressing human liver carcinoma (HepG2-GCGR) is used.

Hi Ashref,

I don't know if you found an answer but so far I haven't seen glucagon ellicit a response from HEPG2 cells. I contacted two labs about this and they both agree that hepatocyte like cell-lines don't respond to glucagon. Most studies use primary hepatocytes though there have been papers which have created stable rat / human GCGR cell-lines. However, I've yet to see a study showing glucagon triggering both glucose / fatty acid metabolism through glucagon dependent signalling in stable GCGR cell-lines.