Novel approach for reconstruction of the three-dimensional biliary system in decellularized liver scaffold using hepatocyte progenitors

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297285
• Publication Date: 2024-02-15T18:39:30Z
• Authors: Kazuya Hirukawa; Hiroshi Yagi; Kohei Kuroda; Masafumi Watanabe; Kotaro Nishi; Shogo Nagata; Yuta Abe; Minoru Kitago; Shungo Adachi; Ryo Sudo; Yuko Kitagawa
• Keywords: Decellularization; Bone canaliculus; Cholangiocyte; Liver Regeneration

Reconstruction of the biliary system is indispensable for regeneration transplantable liver grafts. Here, we report establishment first continuous three-dimensional scaffold bile acid excretion using a novel method. We confirmed preservation liver-derived extracellular matrix distribution in scaffold. In addition, hepatocyte progenitors decellularized via duct by slow-speed perfusion differentiated into hepatocyte- and cholangiocyte-like cells, mimicking hepatic cords ducts, respectively. Furthermore, qRT-PCR demonstrated increased ALB , BSEP AQP8 expression, revealing canaliculi- duct-specific genetic patterns. Therefore, concluded that locally preserved matrices stimulated provided efficient differentiation, as well from through ducts. These findings suggest organ-derived scaffolds can be utilized reconstruction functional systems.