CENTRE FOR BIOTECHNOLOGY

UNIVERSITY COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING SCIENCE

AND TECHNOLOGY

JAWAHARLAL NEHRU TECHNOLOGICAL

UNIVERSITY,

HYDERABAD
Kukatpally, Hyderabad - 500085, Telangana state, India

​
SEMINAR TOPIC
​ ON
“BIO ARTIFICIAL LIVER’’
SEMESTER -I
​ MASTER OF SCIENCE
​ IN
​ MICROBIOLOGY
​ BY
​ P. DEEPIKA REDDY
​ 24011G1920
DECLARATION

I, here by declare that the project entitled “SEMINAR TOPIC ON BIO ARTIFICAL LIVER”
Submitted to the University College of Engineering Science and Technology, Hyderabad, in
the partial fulfillment for the award of Degree of Master of Science has been reviewed and
compiled by me under the supervision of Dr. P. RANJIT at the Department of Biotechnology,
University College of Engineering Science and Technology, Hyderabad. This thesis or any
part thereof had not been submitted elsewhere in part or full for the award of any other
Diploma or Degree of this or any Other University.

Date: P. DEEPIKA REDDY

​

24011G1920
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

First and foremost, I express my sincere gratitude to my guide Dr. P. RANJIT for his valuable
guidance, motivating discussions, and encouragement along the way. It was his cooperation,
perpetual help, earnest attentiveness, and meticulous care that enabled me to complete this
thesis.

I extend my deep Thanks to Dr. Archana Giri, Head of the Department,

Centre for Biotechnology. UCESTH, JNTUH.

I acknowledge my gratitude to all the faculty members for their support and for
providing the necessary Facilities.

This seminar would not have been possible without the encouragement and support
in every way from my beloved parents and friends.

P. DEEPIKA REDDY

24011G192
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chapter No. Content Page No.

I Abstract 1

II Introduction 2-3

III Evolution of artificial liver 3-4

IV Components of bio artificial liver 4-6

V Types of bio reactors 6-11

VI Key challenges and future directions 11-13

VII Clinical trials and recent advancements 13-15

VIII Future directions 16-19

IX Advantages and disadvantages 19- 21

X Result and conclusion 22

​ XI References 23
Abstract

Liver failure, whether acute or chronic, remains a critical global health challenge, often
necessitating liver transplantation as the only definitive treatment. However, due to organ
shortages and post-transplant complications, bio-artificial liver (BAL) systems have emerged
as a promising bridge therapy or alternative treatment. BAL devices combine biological liver
cells, typically hepatocytes from human or animal sources, with bioreactors and artificial
components to mimic liver functions such as detoxification, metabolism, and biosynthesis.
These systems aim to provide temporary liver support, allowing regeneration of the patient’s
liver or serving as a bridge to transplantation.

Recent advancements in tissue engineering, stem cell technologies, and bioreactor designs
have improved BAL efficiency and biocompatibility. However, challenges such as immune
responses, cell viability, and scalability remain significant hurdles. This paper reviews the
latest developments in BAL technology, its clinical applications, and future directions toward
fully functional bioengineered liver replacements.
Introduction

Liver transplantation is currently the only mode of treatment for patients in acute
liver failure who are not responding to supportive therapy .Various liver support devices have
been developed to stabilize the patients while they wait for suitable donors and act as a
bridge to transplantation. A bioartificial liver (BAL) is a synthetic system that, with the
inclusion of hepatocytes, can perform specific tasks closer to the in vivo performances.
HFMB can fulfill the design requirements of BAL, that is, the cells used in the device be
given an anchorage substrate and isolated from the host immune system. Hollow fiber
membranes provide some degree of anchorage for hepatocytes and this may be
supplemented by ECM materials, such as collagen. In addition, the membrane isolates
xenogeneic hepatocytes from the immune system. In addition to immunoisolation,
membranes can also provide protection from viral transmission. Concerns have been
expressed regarding the possibility of xenozoonotic retroviral infection of patients treated
with a BAL using porcine hepatocytes. In a hollow fiber-based BAL, cells can be cultured
either inside or outside of the hollow fibers.

Scientists who developed bio artificial liver

Multiple people have contributed to the development of bioartificial livers, including Dr.
Achilles A. Demetriou, Dr. Scott L. Nyberg, and Chamuleau et al.

Dr. Achilles A. Demetriou

In 1993, Demetriou created the first bioartificial liver device at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center.
The device used pig liver cells and cellulose fibers.

Dr. Scott L. Nyber

Nyberg is a liver transplant surgeon and biomedical engineer at the Mayo Clinic. His lab has
developed multiple bioartificial liver devices, including the Spheroid Reservoir Bioartificial
Liver (SRBAL).

Chamuleau et al
Chamuleau et al developed the Academic Medical Center (AMC-BAL) bioartificial liver in
Amsterdam. The AMC -BAL uses a hollow fiber bioreactor and a plasmapheresis system.
Liver Failure :

Liver failure, whether acute or chronic, remains a critical global health challenge, often
necessitating liver transplantation as the only definitive treatment. However, due to organ
shortages and post-transplant complications, bio-artificial liver (BAL) systems have emerged
as a promising bridge therapy or alternative treatment. BAL devices combine biological liver
cells, typically hepatocytes from human or animal sources, with bioreactors and artificial
components to mimic liver functions such as detoxification, metabolism, and biosynthesis.
These systems aim to provide temporary liver support, allowing regeneration of the patient’s
liver or serving as a bridge to transplantation.

Key points about bioartificial livers in liver failure:

Detoxification:
Unlike a simple artificial liver which only removes toxins, a bioartificial liver utilizes living liver
cells (hepatocytes) to actively metabolize and remove toxins from the blood, mimicking the
natural functions of a healthy liver.

Protein synthesis:
Besides detoxification, bioartificial livers can also produce essential proteins that the failing
liver is unable to synthesize, which is crucial for maintaining bodily functions.

Bridge to transplant:
In situations where a liver transplant is necessary, a bioartificial liver can provide
life-sustaining support while the patient waits for a suitable donor organ.

Potential for regeneration:

In some cases, a bioartificial liver may even help the patient's own liver regenerate by
providing a temporary functional support system.
Important considerations regarding bioartificial livers:

Clinical limitations:
While research is ongoing, bioartificial liver technology is still in its developmental stages and
not yet widely available for clinical use due to challenges like cell sourcing, maintaining cell
viability, and device design.

Cell source:
Finding a reliable and readily available source of healthy hepatocytes for the bioartificial liver
is a major concern.

Cost and complexity:

Implementing and maintaining a bioartificial liver system can be expensive and requires
specialized medical expertise.
Evolution of the bio artificial liver : the need for randomised clinical trials

The pursuit of a bioartificial liver is well documented in the literature. Early techniques of
artificial liver support that have undergone clinical testing included simple exchange
transfusions, extracorporeal xenogeneic or allogeneic liver perfusion, cross-circulation,
hemodialysis, charcoal hemoperfusion, and plasmapheresis with plasma exchange. These
techniques failed because they were unable to adequately support those hepatic functions
essential for survival and because they lacked a back-up therapy, such as liver
transplantation, for irreversible forms of liver disease. The concept evolved that hepatic
functions essential for survival would be best performed by hepatocytes in an apparatus that
allowed sustained or repetitive application. The best results have been achieved with
bioartificial liver technologies that employ hepatocytes as implantable systems or
extracorporeal devices. Implantable bioartificial liver systems include hepatocytes that have
been on coated microcarrier beads, within microencapsulated gel droplets, within
biodegradable polymeric substrates, or as spheroid hepatocyte aggregates. Extracorporeal
systems include hepatocytes in suspension, on flat plates, and in hollow fiber bioreactors.
Several extracorporeal systems have undergone extensive animal testing and are entering
the early stages of human clinical trials. Randomized trials are needed to establish the value
of bioartificial liver support in the treatment of patients with acute hepatic failure or as a
bridge to liver transplantation
Components of a Bioartificial Liver
A BAL system typically consists of bioreactors, cell sources, and supporting devices that
work together to perform liver functions. The key components include:

Bioreactor (Liver Assist Device)

The core of the BAL, where liver cells (hepatocytes) are housed.
Provides a controlled environment for hepatocytes to function, including oxygenation,
nutrient supply, and waste removal.
Can be hollow fiber bioreactors, fluidized bed bioreactors, or spheroid culture bioreactors.

Cell Source:
Hepatocytes or hepatocyte-like cells are needed for liver function.

Sources include:
Primary human hepatocytes (ideal but difficult to obtain).
Porcine hepatocytes (widely used due to availability).
Stem cell-derived hepatocytes (e.g., from embryonic or induced pluripotent stem cells).
Immortalized hepatocyte cell lines (genetically modified for long-term use).
Blood Circulation System

Connects the patient’s blood to the BAL device.

A plasma separation unit (such as a membrane or centrifuge) separates plasma from whole
blood to prevent immune reactions.
Plasma is processed in the bioreactor before being returned to the patient.
Oxygenation and Nutrient Supply System

Ensures that hepatocytes receive adequate oxygen and nutrients for metabolic functions.
Includes oxygenators, perfusion pumps, and a medium supply system.
Detoxification Unit

Removes toxins such as ammonia, bilirubin, and drugs that the failing liver cannot process.
Functions through biological metabolism (by hepatocytes) and artificial adsorption (activated
carbon or ion exchange resins).

Control and Monitoring System

Regulates flow rates, oxygen levels, pH, temperature, and pressure.
Uses sensors and automated feedback mechanisms for optimal hepatocyte performance.
Mechanism of a Bioartificial Liver
The BAL works by processing the patient’s plasma through hepatocytes, mimicking liver
functions:

Blood Collection & Plasma Separation

Blood is drawn from the patient and passes through a plasma filter.
Plasma is separated from blood cells to reduce immune response.
Plasma Processing in the Bioreactor

Plasma enters the bioreactor, where hepatocytes perform liver functions:

Detoxification (breakdown of toxins, ammonia, and bilirubin).
Metabolism (processing of nutrients, glucose regulation, and protein synthesis).
Biosynthesis (production of albumin, clotting factors, and bile acids).

Toxin Removal
●​ Hepatocytes metabolize waste, and additional artificial detoxification methods (such
as activated charcoal) help clear harmful substances.
●​ Oxygenation & Nutrient Supply
●​ Continuous oxygenation and nutrient delivery keep hepatocytes active and
functional.
●​ Return of Processed Plasma to Patient
●​ The treated plasma, now free of toxins and rich in liver-produced substances, is
recombined with the patient’s blood cells and returned to the body.
●​ Continuous Monitoring & Adjustment
●​ Automated systems adjust perfusion rates, oxygen levels, and nutrient supply to
optimize liver function.

Types of bio artificial liver's :

Bioartificial livers (BALs) are devices designed to support patients with liver failure by
mimicking the liver’s detoxification, metabolic, and synthetic functions. These systems
combine biological components (such as liver cells) with artificial components to temporarily
replace liver function until transplantation or natural liver regeneration occurs.
Bio reactor :
In a bioartificial liver, a "bioreactor" is a specialized device that houses living liver cells,
allowing them to perform liver functions on a patient's blood outside the body, essentially
acting as a temporary replacement for a failing liver by filtering toxins and producing
necessary proteins while the patient's own liver recovers; it is the key component of the
bioartificial liver system that enables the interaction between the liver cells and the
circulating blood.
Key points about bioreactors in bioartificial livers:

Function:
The bioreactor provides a controlled environment with optimal conditions like oxygen and
nutrient supply for the liver cells to function effectively while allowing blood to flow through
and interact with the cells.

Cell type:
Typically, the cells used in a bioreactor are hepatocytes, which are the primary functional
cells of the liver.

Design features:
Bioreactors are often designed with a porous membrane system to separate the cells from
the blood while still allowing for the exchange of molecules.

Hollow fiber technology:

A common design for bioreactors in bioartificial livers is the "hollow fiber" structure, where
cells are housed within tiny hollow fibers that allow for efficient blood flow and cell-to-blood
contact.

Clinical application:

Bridge to transplant:
Bioartificial livers are primarily used as a temporary measure to support patients with severe
liver failure while they wait for a liver transplant.
The ELAD (Extracorporeal Liver Assist Device) is an experimental bioartificial liver (BAL)
system developed by Vital Therapies, Inc. It is designed to provide temporary liver support to
patients with acute liver failure, allowing the liver to regenerate or serving as a bridge to liver
transplantation.

Overview of ELAD Bioartificial Liver:

The ELAD system is based on extracorporeal (outside-the-body) liver support using

human-derived liver cells in a bioreactor. It is intended to perform some of the liver’s
essential functions, such as detoxification, metabolic balance, and protein synthesis,
mimicking natural liver activity.

Key Components of ELAD:

Bioreactor with C3A Liver Cells

The system contains a bioreactor filled with C3A cells, a human hepatocyte cell line derived
from liver cancer cells.
These cells help metabolize toxins and produce key liver proteins.
Blood Circulation System
The patient’s blood is drawn, processed, and passed through the ELAD system.
The system separates plasma from blood cells, allowing only plasma to interact with the C3A
cells before being recombined and returned to the patient.
Pump and Filtration Systems
Maintains fluid dynamics and prevents clotting or contamination.
How ELAD Works
Blood is drawn from the patient and enters the ELAD system.
Plasma is separated from blood cells and passed through the bioreactor.
The plasma interacts with the C3A liver cells, allowing detoxification and protein production.
Processed plasma is recombined with blood cells and returned to the patient.

Potential Benefits of ELAD

Temporary liver support: Provides liver function while the patient’s own liver heals.
Bridge to transplant: Helps critically ill patients survive until a liver transplant is available.
Non-invasive alternative to transplant: In some cases, it may help the liver regenerate and
avoid the need for transplantation.

Clinical Trials & Challenges

ELAD has undergone multiple clinical trials, but results have been mixed.
A 2019 phase III trial (VTL-308) failed to meet primary endpoints for survival improvement.
Challenges include:
Effectiveness: Limited success in improving patient survival.
Immune response: Some concerns about using C3A cells derived from cancerous origins.
High cost & complexity: Requires continuous monitoring and expensive equipmenta

Current Status :
Following the failed clinical trials, Vital Therapies, Inc. shut down operations in 2018. While
the ELAD system is not currently available, research on bioartificial liver systems continues
in hopes of improving extracorporeal liver support technology.

A hepatocyte-Based Bioreactor (HBB) is a bioengineered system that mimics liver function

using cultured hepatocytes (liver cells) in a controlled environment. These bioreactors are
used in applications such as bioartificial livers (BALs) for temporary liver support, drug
metabolism studies, and toxicology screening.

Key Components of a Hepatocyte-Based Bioreactor

Hepatocytes: Primary liver cells (human or animal-derived) or hepatocyte-like cells derived

from stem cells.
Bioreactor Chamber: A controlled environment that provides optimal conditions
(temperature, oxygen, nutrients) for hepatocyte survival and function.
Microfluidic System: Ensures continuous flow of media, mimicking blood circulation and
nutrient exchange.
Oxygenation & Waste Removal: Critical for maintaining hepatocyte viability and function.
Scaffolds or Matrices: Used for 3D cell culture, enhancing cell-to-cell interactions and
liver-like functionality.

Microcarrier-Based Bioartificial Liver:

Description: Hepatocytes are immobilized on microcarriers, which provide a large surface

area for cell attachment and function.
Biological Component: Porcine or human hepatocytes attached to microbeads.
Artificial Component: Bioreactor chamber with fluidized bed or packed bed structure.
Function: Enhances hepatocyte survival and metabolic activity for liver function support.
Example: AMC Bioartificial Liver.

Encapsulated Cell Bioartificial Liver :

Description: Hepatocytes are encapsulated in semi-permeable membranes, allowing
exchange of nutrients and metabolites while protecting cells from immune attack.
Biological Component: Human or porcine hepatocytes inside capsules.
Artificial Component: Alginate or polymer-based encapsulation system.
Function: Reduces immune response while maintaining hepatocyte functionality.
Example: Spheroid-based

Challenges and Future Directions of Bioartificial Liver (BAL) :

The development of bioartificial liver (BAL) systems represents a promising approach for
treating acute liver failure (ALF) and supporting patients awaiting liver transplantation.
However, several challenges remain before these devices can become widely available.
Below are the key challenges and future directions in BAL development:

Challenges
Cell Source and Functionality :

Primary human hepatocytes are difficult to obtain, have limited proliferation potential, and
often lose function in vitro.
Stem cell-derived hepatocytes and immortalized cell lines may not fully mimic liver function.

Immune Compatibility and Rejection :

Immune reactions against non-human hepatocytes (e.g., porcine cells) pose a significant
challenge.
Risk of zoonotic infections from xenogeneic cells.

Scalability and Long-term Stability :

BAL systems must maintain high levels of hepatocyte activity over extended periods.
Large-scale cell culture techniques must be developed for clinical applications.

Biomaterials and Scaffold Design :

Creating a three-dimensional scaffold that mimics the native liver microenvironment is
difficult.
Oxygen and nutrient transport limitations impact hepatocyte viability.

Regulatory and Ethical Concerns :

Stringent regulatory approvals are required before BAL can be used clinically.
Ethical concerns regarding the use of stem cells and animal-derived hepatocytes

Limited Clinical Success:

Many BAL systems have shown promise in preclinical and early clinical trials but have yet to
demonstrate significant survival benefits.
Challenges in bridging BAL therapy to liver regeneration or transplantation.
Future Directions :
Stem Cell and Genetic Engineering Approaches :
Use of induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to
generate functional hepatocytes.
CRISPR-based gene editing to enhance hepatocyte function and reduce immune rejection

Advanced Bioreactor Designs:

Development of perfusion bioreactors that better mimic liver physiology.
Integration of microfluidic and organ-on-a-chip technologies for improved hepatocyte
function

Tissue Engineering and 3D Bioprinting :

Engineering liver organoids or bio-printed liver constructs with vascular networks.
Combining synthetic and natural biomaterials to improve cell attachment and viability.

Hybrid Artificial and Bioartificial Systems :

Integration of artificial liver support (e.g., plasma filtration, detoxification) with biological
hepatocyte-based systems.
Combination therapies to maximize patient survival while awaiting transplantation.

Personalized and Precision Medicine Approaches :

Development of patient-specific BAL devices using autologous hepatocytes or stem cells.
AI-driven optimization of BAL performance based on patient-specific liver function data.

Clinical Trials and Regulatory Approvals :

Conducting large-scale, multi-center trials to validate BAL efficacy.
Establishing standardized guidelines for safety, efficacy, and manufacturing.

Current advancements of bio artificial liver:

Bioartificial liver (BAL) systems are innovative devices designed to support liver function in
patients experiencing liver failure, either as a bridge to transplantation or to facilitate liver
regeneration. These systems combine biological components, such as living hepatocytes,
with artificial frameworks to replicate the liver's detoxification and synthetic capabilities.
Recent Advancements in Bioartificial Liver Systems:

Development of Novel BAL Devices:

Researchers have developed various BAL systems, with eleven different devices reported in
clinical applications. Some of these systems have been evaluated in controlled trials,
demonstrating improvements in clinical and biochemical parameters, though significant
survival benefits have yet to be conclusively proven.

Innovative Bioreactor Designs:

The Spheroid Reservoir Bioartificial Liver (SRBAL), developed by the Mayo Clinic, utilizes a
novel bioreactor design to enhance liver support. Preclinical studies suggest that SRBAL can
serve as a potential bridge to liver transplantation or provide temporary support until
spontaneous liver recovery occurs.

Advancements in Cell Sources and Scaffold Materials:

Recent research has focused on optimizing cell sources, including primary human
hepatocytes and stem cell-derived hepatocyte-like cells, to improve BAL functionality.
Additionally, the development of advanced scaffold materials, such as cryogels, has been
explored to enhance cell growth and function within BAL devices.

Integration of Microfluidic Technologies:

The application of microfluidic techniques in liver-on-a-chip devices has provided new
platforms for studying liver functions and diseases. These devices aim to mimic the hepatic
environment more accurately, offering potential improvements in drug testing and disease
modeling.

Exploration of mRNA Technology for Organ Rejuvenation:

Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are investigating the use of mRNA technology to
rejuvenate damaged organs, including the liver. This approach involves reprogramming
injured liver cells to restore their function, potentially offering an alternative to organ
transplantation. Clinical trials are planned to assess the efficacy of this method in patients
with end-stage liver disease.

While these advancements are promising, the clinical application of BAL systems remains
under investigation. Challenges such as sourcing suitable hepatocytes, ensuring
biocompatibility, and demonstrating significant survival benefits in large-scale clinical trials
need to be addressed. Ongoing research and technological innovations continue to drive
progress in this field, bringing BAL systems closer to routine clinical use.

Future prospects of bio artificial liver:

The future prospects of bioartificial liver (BAL) systems are promising due to advancements
in biotechnology, tissue engineering, and regenerative medicine. BALs are designed to
provide temporary liver support for patients with acute liver failure (ALF), chronic liver
disease, or those awaiting liver transplants. Here’s a look at key future prospects:

1. Advancements in Bioprinting & Tissue Engineering 🧬

3D bioprinting of liver tissue using stem cells can create functional liver structures with
enhanced metabolic activity.
Organoids & liver-on-a-chip technologies offer small-scale, functional liver models for drug
testing and potential implantation.

2. Stem Cell & Regenerative Medicine 🌱

Induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) and mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) could provide a
renewable source of liver cells.
Genetically engineered hepatocytes could improve long-term BAL function by resisting
immune rejection and enhancing metabolic capabilities.

3. Improved Bioreactor Designs ⚙

Novel microfluidic bioreactors that mimic liver microcirculation can improve hepatocyte
function.
Integration of AI-driven monitoring systems can optimize performance and patient outcomes.

4. Xenotransplantation & Hybrid Liver Devices 🐷➡🧑

The use of genetically modified pig liver cells in BALs may address the shortage of human
donor cells.
Hybrid bioartificial livers combining synthetic scaffolds with living liver cells could enhance
detoxification and metabolic support.
5. Clinical Trials & Commercialization 📈
Several BAL systems are in clinical trials, and regulatory approvals could make them widely
available in hospitals.

The cost-effectiveness of BAL therapy versus liver transplants will determine its commercial
success.

Challenges to Overcome 🚧
Immune rejection and limited lifespan of hepatocytes in BALs.
Scalability & affordability of advanced liver cell culture techniques.
Regulatory hurdles for approval of bioengineered liver devices.

A bioartificial liver (BAL) is a device designed to provide temporary liver support for patients
with liver failure. It combines biological (living liver cells) and artificial components to mimic
liver functions.
Below are its advantages and disadvantages:

Advantages
Bridge to Transplant – BAL can keep patients alive while they wait for a liver transplant.
Temporary Liver Support – It helps patients with acute liver failure recover without needing a
transplant.

Mimics Natural Liver Functions – Unlike traditional dialysis, BAL processes toxins, produces
proteins, and regulates metabolism.

Reduces Transplant Demand – Some patients may recover completely with BAL, reducing
the need for a full liver transplant.

Detoxification – Helps remove harmful toxins like ammonia and bilirubin from the blood.
Less Immunological Rejection – Since it is extracorporeal (outside the body), there is less
risk of immune rejection compared to liver transplants.

Disadvantages

Limited Long-Term Use – BAL provides only temporary support; it cannot permanently
replace a liver.
Cell Source Challenges – The use of human or animal liver cells raises ethical,
immunological, and supply concerns.

High Cost – The development and use of BAL devices are expensive, limiting accessibility.
Incomplete Liver Function Replacement – BAL cannot fully replicate all complex liver
functions.

Risk of Infection & Clotting – Since BAL involves blood circulation through an external
device, there is a risk of infections and blood clotting.

Variable Clinical Success – Some studies show mixed results regarding its effectiveness in
improving survival rates.

Result and discussion :

Bio artificial liver (BAL)

systems have shown promise in bridging patients with acute liver failure (ALF) to
transplantation or recovery. Studies indicate that BAL devices incorporating hepatocytes
(from porcine, human, or stem cell-derived sources) improve survival rates, reduce toxin
levels (e.g., ammonia, bilirubin), and enhance liver function biomarkers. Clinical trials
demonstrate variable efficacy, with some showing improved patient outcomes and others
facing challenges in long-term viability.

The effectiveness of BAL depends on cell type, bioreactor design, and patient condition.
While BALs help detoxify blood and support metabolism, they do not fully replicate liver
regenerative functions. Immunogenicity, limited cell lifespan, and scalability remain major
hurdles. Future advancements in stem cell technology, 3D bioprinting, and optimized
bioreactors could enhance BAL performance, making them a viable alternative or
supplement to liver transplantation.

Conclusion :

The development of a bioartificial liver (BAL) represents a promising advancement in

bridging liver failure patients to transplantation or recovery. Unlike traditional mechanical
devices, BAL systems integrate biological hepatocytes with artificial support systems, aiming
to replicate liver functions such as detoxification, metabolism, and protein synthesis.

Despite significant progress, challenges remain, including cell source limitations, immune
compatibility, and scalability. Current research is focused on improving hepatocyte survival,
optimizing bioreactor designs, and incorporating stem cells and tissue engineering
approaches.

In conclusion, while BALs are not yet a complete replacement for liver transplantation, they
offer a viable temporary support option that can improve survival rates and enhance liver
regeneration. Continued advancements in biotechnology, bioengineering, and regenerative
medicine will play a crucial role in making BALs a clinical reality.

References

Websites
●​ [Link] keyword: disadvantages of
bioartificial liver

●​ [Link] keyword: liver

●​ [Link] ice;keyword: bioartificial liver

●​ [Link] keyword: liver dialysis.