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The role of pig hepatocytes in liver transplantation

Leo Buhler

University Hospital Geneva, Department of Surgery, Geneva, Switzerland

Treatment of acute liver failure remains supportive and liver allotransplantation is currently the only available therapy. To use hepatocyte allo- or xenotransplantation for treatment of acute liver failure without immunosuppression, we have developed cell microencapsulation using alginate-polylysine polymers. We have previously reported that human and porcine hepatocytes can be isolated, encapsulated and maintain synthetic and catabolic functions for several days in vitro. In a mouse model of acute liver failure, intraperitoneal implantation of human and porcine encapsulated hepatocytes significantly improved survival. However, viability and function of hepatocytes was limited by the development of inflammatory and fibrotic reactions around the capsules and only lasted for days. Therefore, this approach cannot be applied for chronic liver diseases. In collaboration with the Massachusetts General Hospital, we have established a large-scale isolation and encapsulation for porcine hepatocytes. A model of acute liver failure in baboons is currently being developed and is based on major hepatectomy combined with prolonged warm ischemia of the remaining liver tissue. Initial experiments with transplantation of porcine hepatocytes have been performed and will be reported during the meeting.