Chapter 6 - Hepatic microphysiological systems: Current and future applications in drug discovery and development

Abstract

In vitro liver models have widespread potential applications in drug discovery and development. The rapid loss of hepatocyte function in traditional cultures spurs the need for advanced microphysiological systems that incorporate in vivo attributes to restore liver cell phenotype. This chapter covers complex and more phenotypically relevant 2-D cultures to “liver-on-a-chip” technologies and describes published examples of the development, the characterization, and the proof-of-concept studies to define each model for applications in drug disposition and toxicology and as disease models. Finally, it outlines the validation required within specific context of use and discusses additional factors that will play a role in their eventual success and widespread adoption of these systems.