Scientists in China develop new bio-artificial liver based on human cells

While the effectiveness was only shown in animal models of liver failure, researchers at Renji Hospital in Shanghai have regenerated functional liver clusters from stem cells. “We developed the techniques to expand liver progenitor-like cells from human hepatocytes with functional properties (protein synthesis and toxin clearance). We then seeded a bioreactor with an air-liquid interface where these liver progenitor-like cells grew into 3D clusters and maintained the metabolic function. The ability of this bioreactor to function as an artificial liver support was tested in a D-gal-induced acute liver failure model. Three-hour plasma perfusion of pigs through the bioreactor prevented hepatic encephalopathy and led to markedly improved survival compared to two control groups that received no treatment or plasma perfusion through an empty bioreactor. The survival and inflammatory markers in the treatment group were also significantly improved compared to the control groups.”  MORE

Image Credit:  India today