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Published on: October 6, 2018
A theoretical approach to zonation in a bioartificial liver
Adam J Davidson1, Marianne J Ellis, Julian B Chaudhuri
1Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Bath, Bath BA2 7AY, UK.
Biotechnology and Bioengineering
|August 3, 2011
Summary
Optimizing bioartificial liver (BAL) design is crucial for clinical acceptance. This study models liver zonation to achieve balanced metabolic zones within BALs, paving the way for improved therapeutic devices.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Hepatology
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Bioartificial livers (BALs) require optimization for clinical acceptance.
- Previous theoretical models identified viable BAL configurations.
- Liver cell heterogeneity (zonation) influences metabolic activity in vivo.
Purpose of the Study:
- To extend theoretical BAL models by incorporating liver zonation.
- To optimize BAL design and operating parameters for improved function.
- To investigate the distribution of metabolic zones within an in vitro BAL.
Main Methods:
- Adoption of a theoretical model for metabolic zonation in BALs.
- Examination of metabolic zone distribution under varying parameters.
- Calculation of plasma flow rates for equal zone distribution.
Main Results:
- A clinically relevant cell count (10 billion) allows for balanced metabolic zones.
- Each of the three metabolic zones can occupy approximately one-third of the cell volume.
- This balanced zonation is achievable across different bioreactor designs.
Conclusions:
- Incorporating liver zonation principles can optimize BAL design.
- Achieving balanced metabolic zones is feasible with appropriate parameters.
- This approach facilitates the development of more effective bioartificial liver devices.
