New ultra-thin collagen matrix shows life science potential

Researchers in the US have detailed the creation of a new ultra-thin collagen matrix assembly for use in future studies of the liver.

Developed by the Center for Engineering in Medicine at the Massachusetts General Hospital, the nanoscale matrix biomaterial assembly has been shown to maintain liver cell morphology and function in microfluidic devices for longer times than ever before.

As such, cells can be created with precise extracellular matrix cues required to maintain their differentiated form and liver-specific functions, including albumin and urea production. This makes the technology hugely useful for basic science and preclinical investigations.

For example, researchers could use the matrix to create stable liver microtissues for use in organ-on-a-chip devices that mimic healthy liver physiology, or to investigate liver diseases and test the toxicity of potential therapeutic drugs.

Senior author Dr Martin Yarmush of the Massachusetts General Hospital said this new innovation "will really enable complex liver microtissue engineering by replicating the physiological cues that maintain the state of liver cell differentiation".

There are more than 100 types of liver disease, which between them affect at least two million people in the UK.