Generation of a cell line selectively producing the functionally active OATP1B1 transporter

Abstract

The solute carrier organic anion transporter family member OATP1B1 is one of the most important transporter proteins which mediate the penetration of many endogenous substances and xenobiotics into hepatocytes. A model system providing the expression of the functional protein is needed to assess the interaction of OATP1B1 with various substances. Based on HEK293 cells, we obtained the HEK293-OATP1B1 cell line, permanently expressing the SLCO1B1 gene encoding the OATP1B1 transporter. Expression of the SLCO1B1 gene was confirmed by real-time PCR analysis and immunochemically. The functionality of the transporter was assessed by the transport of atorvastatin, which is a substrate of OATP1B1. Cells of the resulting cell line, which selectively express the functionally active recombinant OATP1B1 transporter, can be used to study its function and to test drugs for belonging to substrates, inducers, and inhibitors of OATP1B1 to assess the risks of drug-drug interactions.