Construction of a novel bioartificial liver system and its functional evaluation in vitro

Objective To construct a novel bioartificial liver (BAL) system and evaluate its functions in vitro. Methods Chinese experimental minipig hepatocytes were isolated by in situ recirculating collagenase perfusion method and 1.0×10~(10) hepatocytes were cultured in serum-free medium with restriction of(attachment), and using spinner method to form hepatocyte(spheroids).cted by inoculating the hepatocyte(spheroids) into cell circuit of a hollow fiber bioreactor from BIOLIV A3A. Observing the number and viability of the(hepatocytes), the changes of alanine aminotransferase (ALT), total bilirubin (TBI), albumin (ALB) in(circulating) hepatocyte suspension and(RPMI1640) medium; in addition, lidocaine metabolism test was(determined),(during) 6h circulation of the system. (Results) There were no significant differences in number and viability of the hepatocytes before and after 6h(circulation). The BAL system has relatively strong albumin synthesis and lidocaine(metabolism) functions. (Conclusions) The BAL system that we developed had ability to support liver functions and could be used in the treatment of liver failure, or to provide temporary liver support for candidates of liver(transplantation).