Japanese geneticists have grown liver cells from stem cells
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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Japanese geneticists used induced stem cells to produce the simplest liver analogue in the laboratory. Experts say that they managed to create tissues similar to those of which the liver consists. Despite the fact that many aspects of the work have not yet been made public, in itself, achievement is already an important scientific breakthrough and allows to succeed in the treatment of a mass of liver diseases.
Takanori Takabe from the City University of Yokohama says that his team's work is only the first step on a very long journey towards the creation of an artificial liver. According to him, now with the help of induced pluripotent stem cells it was possible to create liver-like tissues. In turn ips-cells were obtained by genetic reprogramming of skin stem cells into the embryonic state and changes in the program of their development in the future.
According to experts, the entire process of cell transformation took nine days, after which in the hands of geneticists were real cells-hepatocytes (mature liver cells). After obtaining individual liver cells, researchers with the help of special chemical technology for a couple of days combined cells into three-dimensional structures resembling tiny particles of the liver.
Let's remind, earlier on the similar technique the Japanese experts have created artificial blood vessels.
Now experts say that they conducted experiments on the cells of laboratory mice, but the methods used are universal and should be suitable for people. In addition, scientists conducted a functional genetic test of the cells created and made sure that their biological functions are identical to real liver cells. Created cells metabolically reacted to different medications just like real liver cells.
Takabe says that more years can pass before the created technique can be used in the treatment of people with liver diseases. According to the scientist, a new technique can be shown to people with chronic liver diseases, but before the artificially created cells can be implanted, it must be ensured that they are stable. "People with chronic diseases need the cells created in the liver to work for at least five years so that the patient can recover during the post-operative period," he says.
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