Epithelial cells from human fallopian tube in culture.

The epithelial cells lining the inner surface of the Fallopian tube influence the reproductive process by both their ciliary and secretory activities. The aim of the present work was to establish a method to culture these cells as a model for more specific studies of their properties. Minor slices of the mucosal ridges were cut and minced extensively using a fine scissor. The resulting pieces were washed once, resuspended in RPMI 1640 with 20% fetal calf serum and seeded in plastic dishes. After 2 days, the medium was replaced with RPMI 1640 containing human albumin, insulin and transferrin. Seven to 10 days later, the cell number had increased 5-8 times in 70% of the cultures. The identity of the cells was assessed after 1-3 weeks in culture. Of the cells, 98% stained positive for the antibody to epithelial cell-specific protein cytokeratin. Electron microscopic studies of the cultures showed epithelial characteristics including cilia, microvilli and intercellular junctions in the form of desmosomes. The cells could be kept in culture for 6-8 weeks. In conclusion, a method to culture epithelial cells from the human Fallopian tube is described. The cells have been identified and they can be kept in culture for 6-8 weeks in quantities sufficient for experimental use.