Re-Endothelialization of Decellularized Liver Scaffolds: A Step for Bioengineered Liver Transplantation

Area of Science:

• Regenerative Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering
• Transplantation Science

Background:

• Bioengineered livers (BELs) are being developed as an alternative to address the critical shortage of donor organs for liver transplantation.
• The primary goal of BELs technology is to replace or regenerate the native human liver.
• The decellularization-recellularization approach is a key strategy in tissue engineering transplantable livers.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the decellularization-recellularization approach for bioengineered liver development.
• To highlight critical components for successful BELs, including vascular patency and cell distribution.
• To discuss current challenges and future potential for clinical application of functional bioengineered grafts.

Main Methods:

• Review of strategies to enhance vascular patency in revascularized BELs (rBELs), such as heparin immobilization and peptide/aptamer modifications.
• Exploration of novel methods for improving parenchymal cell seeding and graft functionality during perfusion.
• Evaluation of survival data in large animal models (porcine) following heterotopic transplantation.

Main Results:

• Several strategies have been developed to improve vascular patency in rBELs.
• Novel methods enhance cell seeding and graft functionality, leading to up to 15 days of survival in porcine heterotopic transplantation models.
• Extended survival has not yet been achieved with orthotopic implantation of BELs.

Conclusions:

• Significant progress has been made in developing BELs, particularly in addressing vascularization and cell engraftment.
• Challenges remain in achieving long-term survival and functionality for clinical application.
• Further research is needed to overcome existing hurdles for the successful clinical translation of bioengineered liver grafts.