Long-term cultures of adult mammalian hepatocytes in hollow fibers as the cellular component of extracorporeal (hybrid) liver assist devices.

Abstract

A discussion of the treatment of liver insufficiency with extracorporeal (hybrid) liver assist devices (LADs) should address a definition of the types of liver failure susceptible to being treated by these devices as well as the modalities of in vivo and in vitro testing. Relevant to the first subject is the subject of pathogenesis of hepatic coma, which should be the target for the design of these LADs. Although this modality of therapy is new, it can be predicted that these devices will demand minimal safety conditions, i.e., the seeding with cells that are not tumorigenic or carrying viral particles. Among other topics to be considered in the development of LADs is the proper choice of hollow fiber to be used and the testing on proper animal models of hepatic failure. It is our philosophy that the long-term culture of adult mammalian hepatocytes in hollow fibers is the basis for appropriate designs of this type of temporary liver support.