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Microencapsulated hepatocytes. Prospects for extracorporeal liver support.
H W Matthew1, S O Salley, W D Peterson
1Department of Chemical Engineering, Wayne State University, Detroit, Michigan 48202.
ASAIO Transactions
|July 11, 1991
Summary
Encapsulated hepatocytes show promise for bioartificial liver support. Perfusion bioreactors significantly enhanced urea synthesis compared to plate cultures, indicating improved liver function in this system.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Hepatology
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Bioartificial liver support systems aim to restore liver function.
- Encapsulated hepatocytes offer a potential solution for liver support.
- Complex coacervation is a technique for cell encapsulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate encapsulated rabbit hepatocytes in a bioartificial liver support system.
- To compare the efficacy of hepatocytes cultured in perfusion reactors versus plate cultures.
- To assess urea synthesis and drug metabolism capabilities.
Main Methods:
- Rabbit hepatocytes were encapsulated using complex coacervation.
- Hepatocytes were cultured in multicomponent capsules on plates and in a perfusion reactor.
- Urea synthesis, antipyrine, and diazepam degradation rates were measured over 10 days.
Main Results:
- Urea synthesis rates were significantly higher in perfusion cultures compared to plate cultures.
- Drug degradation rates (antipyrine and diazepam) did not differ significantly across culture systems.
- Encapsulated hepatocytes maintained function for up to 10 days.
Conclusions:
- Perfusion bioreactors enhance urea synthesis of encapsulated hepatocytes, suggesting improved metabolic function.
- Encapsulated hepatocytes show potential for bioartificial liver support, particularly in perfusion systems.
- Further research is needed to optimize drug metabolism in encapsulated hepatocyte systems.