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Experimental Models for Studying Structural and Functional State of the Pathological Liver (Review)
D P Krylov1, S A Rodimova2, M M Karabut3
1Laboratory Assistant, Scientific Laboratory of Molecular Biotechnologies, Research Institute of Experimental Oncology and Biomedical Technologies; Privolzhsky Research Medical University, 10/1 Minin and Pozharsky Square, Nizhny Novgorod, 603005, Russia; Student, Institute of Biology and Biomedicine; National Research Lobachevsky State University of Nizhny Novgorod, 23 Prospekt Gagarina, Nizhny Novgorod, 603022, Russia.
Choosing the right liver disease model is crucial for research. This review compares in vivo, in vitro, and ex vivo models for studying liver pathologies like NAFLD and AFLD.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology and Toxicology
- Biomedical Research Models
Background:
- Liver diseases are a major global health concern with limited diagnostic and therapeutic options.
- Current research relies on various models to study liver pathologies, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and alcoholic liver disease (ALD).
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and compare in vivo, in vitro, and ex vivo models for studying liver pathologies.
- To analyze the advantages, limitations, and prospects of different models in reconstructing disease pathogenesis.
- To highlight the lack of consensus on the optimal model for liver disease research.
Main Methods:
- Comprehensive literature review of in vivo, in vitro, and ex vivo models.
- Analysis of models used for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, alcoholic liver disease, toxic liver injury, and fibrosis.
- Evaluation of pathogenetic mechanisms and reconstruction capabilities of each model.
Main Results:
- Various models like cell cultures, spheroids, organoids, and microfluidic systems are employed.
- Each model presents unique advantages and limitations for studying specific aspects of liver disease.
- No single model is universally accepted; model selection depends on experimental objectives.
Conclusions:
- The choice of an appropriate research model is critical and dictated by the specific research question.
- Further development and validation of models are needed to improve understanding and treatment of liver diseases.
- Effective research models are essential for advancing the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of liver pathologies.
