Ace Therapeutics' expertise lies in the development of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) models, tailored to mimic the intricate cellular, molecular and pathological interactions that drive disease progression. We offer a comprehensive range of services tailored to meet your specific research needs, including the development of in vitro cell-based models, ex vivo liver tissue models, and in vivo animal models. These models enable researchers to investigate the molecular underpinnings of NASH, identify potential therapeutic targets, and evaluate the efficacy of novel treatments.
What Is NASH?
Non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is a severe form of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), characterized by liver inflammation and damage in addition to fat accumulation. Pathological features include hepatocyte ballooning, lobular inflammation, and varying degrees of fibrosis. NASH can progress to advanced liver diseases such as cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma, making it a critical health concern.
Figure 1. Factors contributing to the progression of NAFLD and NASH pathogenesis (Huby T., Gautier E.L., 2022)
Our In Vitro Model Customization Services
Hepatocyte Cultures
We offer primary human or rodent hepatocytes and hepatocyte cell lines (e.g., HepG2) treated with free fatty acids, sugars, and inflammatory cytokines to induce steatosis and mimic NASH conditions.
Co-Culture Systems
Our services include the construction of comprehensive co-culture systems that combine hepatocytes with other liver cell types, such as stellate cells, Kupffer cells, and endothelial cells.
3D Liver Spheroids and Organoids
We develop advanced 3D liver spheroids and organoids using hepatocytes and other liver cells. These models recapitulate liver architecture and function more effectively, providing a better simulation of the progression from simple steatosis to NASH and fibrosis.
Microfluidic Liver-on-a-Chip
Our microfluidic liver-on-a-chip technology integrates liver cells into a microfluidic device, allowing dynamic control of the cellular environment. This facilitates the study of liver metabolism, inflammation, and fibrosis under conditions that closely resemble those in the human body.
How Do We Customize Animal Models of Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis?
We employ the most appropriate species based on the specific research questions and experimental needs. Commonly used species include mice, rats, and non-human primates. Mice are the most frequently used due to their genetic manipulability and cost-effectiveness.
| Model Types |
Service Details |
| Dietary Models |
To induce liver steatosis and inflammation, we employ high-fat diets (HFD), high-fructose diets, methionine and choline-deficient (MCD) diets, and Western diets (high-fat, high-sugar). |
| Genetic Models |
We can customize leptin-deficient (ob/ob) mice or leptin receptor-deficient (db/db) mice to mimic metabolic disturbances leading to NASH. |
| Chemically Induced Models |
We can induce liver injury and fibrosis in animals through the administration of chemicals like carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) or thioacetamide (TAA). |
| Combination Models |
We offer expertise in combining dietary and chemical methods to enhance the robustness of liver injury models, such as the combination of a high-fat diet (HFD) with low-dose CCl4. |
At Ace Therapeutics, we specialize in customizing non-alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) models to meet your specific research needs. Each model is meticulously designed to recapitulate the complex pathophysiology of NASH, providing robust platforms for drug testing and mechanistic studies. Contact us today to discuss how our tailored NASH models can support your research and therapeutic development efforts.
Reference
- Huby T., Gautier E.L. Immune cell-mediated features of non-alcoholic steatohepatitis. Nat Rev Immunol. 2022, 22(7):429-443.
Our products and services are for research use only and can not be used for diagnostic or other purposes.
