Artificial liver device Research Paper Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1250 words

Artificial liver device - Research Paper ExampleAlthough the results were promising, in depth research is still needed to reconcile regulatory standards with the processes utilize in using ALDs as well as to determine other sources of cell line, and other methods for prolonging cell line viability. Introduction The liver is the largest organ in the body. It has a myriad of functions storage of glycogen synthesis of glucose from fat and protein stores detoxification of blood protein synthesis bile production to aid fat digestion excretion of end products of protein metamorphosis synthesis, breakdown and regulation of hormones and antibody production among others. All these work together to maintain homeostasis, and enable the different body systems to function optimally. Chronic liver disease (e.g. cirrhosis) is the one-seventh leading cause of death in the US with almost 27,000 people dying from it annually (Liver Disease Statistics n.pag. Liver Disease Statistics n.pag.). Accordi ng to the marrow squash for Disease Control, about 112,000 people discharged from in-patient c are are diagnosed with liver diseases (Chronic Liver Disease or Cirrhosis n.pag.). ... It can cause symptoms such(prenominal) as edema and jaundice as well as accumulation of metabolic waste products, such as urea, eventually poisoning the different organs especially the brain. According to Pareja et al., the most effective treatment for...patients with chronic liver failure are orthotropic liver transplantation... (n.pag.). However, donor liver is of limited supply and may get wind weeks, months or even years, before a viable organ donor is available. In a survey conducted by the Center for Liver Disease and Transplantation, approximately 17,000 people are waiting for a liver transplant in the US with an approximate waiting time of 321 days (Liver Transplantation tolerant Guide The Waiting List n.pag.). Liver failure is coupled with a high death rate in the absence of transplantation ( Carpentier et al. 1690). Apart from transplantation, researchers are exploring other alternatives in treating chronic liver disease. Among these are the uses of artificial and bio-artificial liver devices that will provide transient support for failing livers. Artificial liver (AL) devices represent use of machines to rid the blood or plasma of toxins and by-products of metabolism (Carpentier et al. 1690). Bio-artificial liver (BAL) devices, on the other hand, make use of cell lines housed in a bioreactor pick-me-up that perform the detoxification, biotransformation, excretion and synthetic function of the liver (Carpentier et al. 1690). Availability of these devices, however, has not reached the market as more studies are still being done in order to reconcile the different issues associated with its widespread use. Method Bio-artificial liver devices provide liver assistance continuously for thirty days, enabling the patients liver to heal, or to