No abstract

We present a novel and valid pig model permitting both transplantation of large autologous, laboratory-engineered skin analogues and also keeping the site of intervention undisturbed for at least three postoperative weeks. Hence, the model will be used for experiments testing whether such large skin analogues can restore near-normal skin, particularly in the long term. If so, clinical application can be envisioned.

No abstract

Many patients suffering from end-stage liver disease cannot be transplanted within reasonable time due to the shortage of donor organs. Bioartificial liver support systems may contribute to the liver regeneration or bridging the time until a liver graft for transplantation becomes available. Nonwovens with integrated oxygenation capacity have been developed and manufactured by melt blow technology using thermoplastic polyurethane. Capillary membranes for oxygenation were integrated into the nonwoven during the processing. The polyurethane nonwoven structures with adapted pore size and high pore volume allow high cell densities in the hepatocyte culture. The three-dimensional cell culture was housed by a flow bioreactor system and was integrated in a closed loop circulation with monitoring possibilities for pressure, pH, temperature, ammonia, and oxygen. Hepatocytes were isolated from rats or pigs by collagenase perfusion and infused into the medium-perfused circulation. Cells showed high viability and hepatocyte specific cytochrome P450-dependent metabolic function in culture (MEGX test).