WP2

Objectives:

1. Design and optimisation of age-specific bespoke hydrogel formulation for modelling the liver, including relevant matrix proteins/GAGs, correct mechanical properties, and including relevant cell types – e.g., primary human hepatocytes/HepaRG, liver endothelial cells, Kupffer cells,
2. Adapt bespoke hydrogel formulation for use in combination with OoC device
3. Test effect of macrophage targeting on matrix changes

Expected Results: Development of a more physiologically relevant age-specific in vitro model of the liver will provide a drug screening platform with high predictive power for the efficacy of treatments for metastatic cancer of the liver, compared to current preclinical screening models which ignore the contribution of the matrix and immune component. The model will also be useful for toxicological screening of compounds, due to most drugs also passing through the liver (including those intended for other organ sites).