New method of hepatocyte transplantation and extracorporeal liver support

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Hepatology
• Regenerative Medicine

Background:

• Hepatocyte transplantation is a promising therapy for liver failure.
• Maintaining hepatocyte viability and function post-transplantation remains a challenge.
• Current methods often result in limited long-term engraftment and function.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a technique for enhanced hepatocyte attachment and viability.
• To evaluate the in vivo and in vitro function of microcarrier-attached hepatocytes.
• To assess the potential of this method for bioartificial liver applications.

Main Methods:

• Rat hepatocytes were isolated using collagenase perfusion.
• Hepatocytes were attached to collagen-coated microcarriers.
• Microcarrier-hepatocyte constructs were transplanted into Gunn rats and albumin-deficient rats.
• An extracorporeal liver perfusion system was developed using these constructs.

Main Results:

• Transplanted microcarrier-attached hepatocytes demonstrated prolonged viability and function for 3-4 weeks in vivo.
• Successful bilirubin conjugation and decreased serum bilirubin levels were observed post-transplantation.
• Significant increases in plasma albumin levels were achieved in albumin-deficient rats.
• Stored microcarrier-attached hepatocytes retained viability and function after 2 weeks at -80°C.
• The extracorporeal system synthesized and conjugated bilirubin and liver-specific proteins.

Conclusions:

• Collagen-coated microcarriers significantly enhance hepatocyte viability and function.
• This technique shows promise for improving hepatocyte transplantation outcomes.
• The developed system is suitable for creating functional bioartificial liver devices.