A central focus of our research is the assembly of hepatocytes, the primary cell types within the liver, into tissue-mimicking constructs that can seamlessly integrate with the host upon implantation, ultimately supplanting the functions of the failing host liver. We utilize engineered biomaterials that serve as a scaffold to rapidly recruit host vessels into it. We load these biomaterials with growth factors that are slowly released over time to attract host vasculature. These biomaterials are fabricated in the form of micron-scale hydrogel spheres, each approximately 100 μm in diameter. This design facilitates their injection through a fine needle, with the interstitial spaces between the microspheres allowing for the infiltration and growth of attracted vessels.

This image  was captured for the purpose of characterizing these microspheres and ensuring uniformity in their size and shape. To aid in visualization, fluorescently tagged dextran (depicted in purple) was incorporated into the hydrogel microspheres.