The development of artificial livers

Asish C. Misra, Devin Eckhoff

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

5 Scopus citations

Abstract

Purpose of reviewWhile liver transplantation is an established treatment for liver failure, the number of patients with liver failure amenable to such intervention far outnumbers the donor supply of livers. Technologies serving to bridge this gap are required. Artificial livers may serve as an alternative. In this review, we discuss the development of artificial liver technologies.Recent findingsThe accrued clinical data suggest that current liver assist devices may serve a role in specific liver diseases, but for the most part no survival benefit has been demonstrated. More clinical trials are expected to elucidate their utilization. Simultaneously, recent advances in materials and tissue engineering are allowing for exciting developments for novel artificial livers.SummaryAs there continues to be more clinical data regarding the use of current liver devices, new intricate artificial liver technologies, with the use of sophisticated three-dimensional materials, are being developed that may help improve outcomes of liver failure patients.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)468-473
Number of pages6
JournalCurrent Opinion in Organ Transplantation
Volume26
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - Oct 1 2021
Externally publishedYes

Keywords

  • artificial livers
  • biomaterials
  • liver failure
  • tissue engineering

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Immunology and Allergy
  • Transplantation

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