Mechanisms
HepG2 human liver cells synthesize and secrete a protein immunochemically identical to plasma LTP-I, identifying hepatocytes as a candidate source (Arteriosclerosis 1987)
Original title: Synthesis and secretion of plasma cholesteryl ester transfer protein by human hepatocarcinoma cell line, HepG2
The authors examined the synthesis, secretion, and functional and physical characteristics of a lipid transfer protein synthesized by a human hepatocellular carcinoma line. This protein shared immunochemical determinants and many other properties with the lipid transfer protein, LTP-I, previously purified from human plasma. The authors conclude the human liver cell line HepG2 synthesizes and secretes LTP-I, indicating hepatocytes may be the source of LTP-I in human plasma.
Original abstract
We have examined the synthesis, secretion, and functional and physical characteristics of a lipid transfer protein synthesized by a human hepatocellular carcinoma line. We found that this protein shares immunochemical determinants and many other properties with the lipid transfer protein, LTP-I, which has been purified from human plasma. We conclude that the human liver cell line, HepG2, synthesizes and secretes LTP-I. Thus, hepatocytes may be the source of LTP-I in human plasma.
Summary written by cetpinhibition.org from the published abstract; figures as published. Page updated 19 August 2026. Methods.