In vitro analysis of a hepatic device with intrinsic microvascular-based channels

Amedeo Carraro, Wen Ming Hsu, Katherine M. Kulig, Wing S. Cheung, Mark L. Miller, Eli J. Weinberg, Eric F. Swart, Mohammad Kaazempur-Mofrad, Jeffrey T. Borenstein, Joseph P. Vacanti, Craig Neville

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

159 Scopus citations

Abstract

A novel microfluidics-based bilayer device with a discrete parenchymal chamber modeled upon hepatic organ architecture is described. The microfluidics network was designed using computational models to provide appropriate flow behavior based on physiological data from human microvasculature. Patterned silicon wafer molds were used to generate films with the vascular-based microfluidics network design and parenchymal chamber by soft lithography. The assembled device harbors hepatocytes behind a nanoporous membrane that permits transport of metabolites and small proteins while protecting them from the effects of shear stress. The device can sustain both human hepatoma cells and primary rat hepatocytes by continuous in vitro perfusion of medium, allowing proliferation and maintaining hepatic functions such as serum protein synthesis and metabolism. The design and fabrication processes are scalable, enabling the device concept to serve as both a platform technology for drug discovery and toxicity, and for the continuing development of an improved liver-assist device.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)795-805
Number of pages11
JournalBiomedical Microdevices
Volume10
Issue number6
DOIs
StatePublished - 2008

Keywords

  • Hepatocytes
  • Liver
  • Microfabrication
  • Tissue engineering

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