We present here methods for assessing hepatotoxicity by high content imaging and image analysis. The assays focus on the characterization of toxic effects using a variety of phenotypic endpoint readouts. Multi-parametric automated image analysis is used in the protocols to increase assay sensitivity and provide important information about possible in vitro toxicity mechanisms. iPSC-derived hepatocytes were used as a model for the hepatotoxicity assays, but the methods would also be suitable for other liver toxicity cell models. The methods contain detailed step-by-step descriptions of the cell treatment, staining, image acquisition, and image analysis.
Keywords: Hepatocytes; Hepatotoxicity; High content; Imaging; Screening; Stem cell models.