Understanding Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD) is a significant condition resulting from excessive alcohol consumption, leading to a spectrum of liver abnormalities ranging from simple steatosis to cirrhosis. This section outlines the critical aspects of AFLD, including its definition, epidemiological scope, contributing factors, and the progressive nature of the disease. Definition and Progression Alcoholic fatty liver disease is characterized by hepatic steatosis, where fat accumulates in the liver due to heavy alcohol use. When individuals consume more alcohol than the liver can process, it disrupts the breakdown of fats. If left unchecked, AFLD can advance from fatty liver to alcoholic hepatitis, an acute liver inflammation, and potentially to cirrhosis, where healthy liver tissue is substituted with scar tissue. Epidemiology and Prevalence The prevalence of AFLD is closely tied to patterns of alcohol consumption globally. Notably, it is more common in populations with higher rates of heavy alcohol use and binge drinking. Among those who consume alcohol excessively, AFLD is often the earliest form of alcohol-related liver disease (ALD) encountered. Risk Factors and Alcohol Consumption Major risk factors for developing AFLD include: Heavy Alcohol Use: Consistent intake of large quantities of alcohol. Binge Drinking: Consuming four to five drinks within two hours. Metabolic Syndrome: A cluster of conditions such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. High Body Mass Index (BMI): Increased body fat is associated with greater risk of fatty liver disease. These risk factors amplify the likelihood of developing AFLD and further progression to severe liver disease. Stages of Liver Disease The stages of liver disease due to alcohol use evolve over time: Steatosis (Fatty Liver): Fat accumulation in liver cells, often asymptomatic. Alcoholic Hepatitis: Inflammation and cell death occur in the liver. Fibrosis: Excess fibrous tissue builds up in the liver due to ongoing inflammation. Cirrhosis: Final stage, with widespread fibrosis and impaired liver function, which can be categorized as: Compensated Cirrhosis: The liver still functions despite damage. Decompensated Cirrhosis: Liver function is inadequate, leading to serious health complications. Each stage marks a progression in the severity of AFLD and potential for recovery decreases as the disease advances. Diagnosis and Treatment Strategies Effective management of Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (AFLD) involves prompt diagnosis and the implementation of treatment strategies aimed at mitigating liver damage and managing symptoms. AFLD treatment includes lifestyle modifications, medications, and in severe cases, liver transplantation. Recognizing Symptoms and Complications Patients with AFLD may experience a range of symptoms including fatigue, jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes), and ascites (accumulation of fluid in the abdomen). Complications such as portal hypertension, which can lead to gastrointestinal bleeding, and hepatic encephalopathy, characterized by mental confusion, are indicative of disease progression and warrant immediate medical attention. Diagnostic Testing and Assessment Diagnosis begins with an assessment of liver function through blood tests to evaluate liver enzymes, bilirubin levels, and other relevant markers. Imaging tests, including ultrasound, MRI, and potentially liver biopsy, are employed to assess the extent of liver damage. A biopsy can confirm the diagnosis by revealing fatty infiltration, inflammation, and liver cell damage. Conventional and Emerging Treatments The cornerstone of AFLD treatment is the cessation of alcohol consumption to prevent further liver damage. In addition to promoting abstinence, addressing alcohol dependency through counseling or support groups may be necessary. Medicines such as corticosteroids or pentoxifylline are prescribed for severe cases. When liver damage is advanced, liver transplantation may be considered. Emerging treatments, such as Vitamin E supplementation, are being researched for their potential to improve liver health in AFLD patients. Lifestyle and Long-Term Management Managing alcoholic fatty liver disease requires a comprehensive approach that focuses on sustainable lifestyle changes to aid in recovery and prevent further liver injury. These changes include a combination of diet, exercise, and weight management strategies; alcohol abstinence with supportive networks; and ongoing monitoring to prevent additional damage to the liver. Diet, Exercise, and Weight Management A healthy diet and regular exercise are crucial for managing body weight and reducing liver fat. A balance of macronutrients and micronutrients supports liver health and helps correct malnutrition: Weight Loss: Gradual weight loss, through calorie restriction and increased physical activity, can reduce liver fat. Aim for a steady loss of 0.5 to 1 kg (1.1 to 2.2 lbs) per week. Healthy Diet: Incorporate a diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while low in saturated fats and refined sugars. Body Mass Index (BMI): Maintain a BMI within the healthy range to reduce the risk of liver damage. Regular Exercise: Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise per week.  Alcohol Abstinence and Support Systems Abstinence from alcohol is imperative for individuals with alcoholic fatty liver disease: Complete Abstinence: Avoiding all forms of alcohol can halt the progression of liver disease and is essential for recovery. Support Systems: Seek out support groups, counseling, or medical programs specialized in alcohol dependency to provide necessary encouragement and accountability. Monitoring and Preventing Further Injury Continued surveillance is key in managing alcoholic fatty liver disease and preventing complications: Liver Health Monitoring: Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider, including liver function tests, can detect signs of liver injury early. Preventative Measures: Vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, controlling cholesterol levels, and managing other health conditions like diabetes can minimize additional liver stress. Nutritional Support: In cases of malnourishment, seek advice from a nutritionist or dietician to ensure adequate nutritional intake without overburdening the liver.

Overview of Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is an increasingly common liver disorder marked by the accumulation of fat in the liver cells, known as hepatocytes. This condition affects a significant portion of the global population and can progress to more serious liver diseases. Definition and Prevalence NAFLD is defined as the buildup of excess fat in the liver, called steatosis, in the absence of significant alcohol consumption. The disease encompasses a range of liver conditions from simple fatty liver, or nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL), to the more aggressive nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). NASH signifies liver inflammation and damage due to fat accumulation and can evolve into cirrhosis or liver cancer if untreated. Epidemiological data suggest that NAFLD affects about 25% of the global population, making it the most common liver disorder in the world. Pathophysiology and Etiology The exact pathophysiology of NAFLD is complex and involves multiple factors leading to liver steatosis and inflammation. Excessive fat accumulation in hepatocytes disrupts normal liver function and may trigger an inflammatory response, which over time, can result in scar tissue formation, known as fibrosis. The progression from NAFL to NASH and beyond is influenced by various etiological factors, including but not limited to: Metabolic syndrome Obesity Insulin resistance Hyperlipidemia Genetic predisposition Risk factors typically overlap and interconnect, making the underlying etiology of NAFLD manifold and diverse. Diagnosis and Assessment Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) poses unique challenges in diagnosis since it often presents without symptoms. A thorough assessment is essential, combining clinical presentation and a variety of diagnostic tests, to accurately identify this liver condition. Clinical Presentation In the early stages of NAFLD, individuals typically exhibit no symptoms. When present, symptoms might include fatigue or discomfort in the upper right abdomen. Physical exam findings are often unremarkable, but may sometimes reveal hepatomegaly, or an enlarged liver. Screening for NAFLD is recommended in patients with metabolic risk factors such as obesity, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and high cholesterol levels. Diagnostic Tests Initial screening for NAFLD often involves blood tests to check for elevated liver enzymes, specifically alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST). However, these tests are not NAFLD-specific and can be normal in many cases. Hence, further imaging tests such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are used to detect fat accumulation in the liver. A FibroScan, also known as transient elastography, is a specialized ultrasound that measures liver stiffness and fat content. Liver stiffness correlates with fibrosis, which is crucial for assessing the stage of NAFLD. In cases where uncertainty remains or when advanced fibrosis is suspected, a liver biopsy might be performed. It is considered the gold standard for diagnosing NAFLD and distinguishing nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), the more aggressive form of NAFLD, by assessing inflammation and fibrosis. However, due to its invasive nature, biopsies are not routinely performed for diagnosis. Instead, they are reserved for cases where this procedure significantly impacts the management and prognosis. Management and Prevention Effective management of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) focuses on halting or reversing the accumulation of fat in the liver, improving liver function, and preventing the progression to more serious liver damage. Prevention strategies are centered on addressing the risk factors for NAFLD. Treatment Approaches The primary treatments for NAFLD involve non-pharmacological strategies like lifestyle changes which are crucial for managing the condition. Currently, there are no medications specifically approved for the treatment of NAFLD. However, clinicians may use pharmacotherapy to manage associated conditions such as hyperlipidemia, diabetes, and obesity, which can contribute to liver damage. When NAFLD progresses to nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), treatment options may expand to therapies targeting liver inflammation and fibrosis, but these should be guided by a healthcare professional. Medications: While not directly treating NAFLD, drugs like pioglitazone or vitamin E may be recommended for patients with NASH, particularly those with liver fibrosis. Clinical judgment is essential, taking into account potential side effects. Bariatric surgery: For patients with obesity and NASH, weight-loss surgery is an option if lifestyle modifications do not lead to significant weight loss.  Lifestyle Modifications Lifestyle changes are the foundation of prevention and management for NAFLD. They include: Diet: Consuming a healthy diet that's rich in fruits, vegetables, lean protein, and whole grains can help. It's advised to reduce intake of saturated fats, trans fats, and refined carbohydrates. Weight Loss: Losing weight gradually, aiming for a loss of 3%-5% of body weight to reduce liver fat, and a 7%-10% reduction to potentially improve liver inflammation. Exercise: Regular physical activity is recommended, including both aerobic and resistance training exercises to aid weight loss and improve metabolic health. These lifestyle interventions not only help in managing NAFLD but also play a significant role in its prevention. It's important for patients to work with healthcare providers to develop a tailored plan that addresses their specific needs.

Fundamentals of Biomaterials for Regenerative Medicine Biomaterials are pivotal in regenerative medicine, facilitating the restoration of tissue function by supporting the integration and growth of new cells. Their selection and application are grounded in biomaterials science and biomedical engineering principles. Overview of Biomaterials Biomaterials are materials engineered to interact with biological systems for a medical purpose, be it diagnostic or therapeutic. They encompass a wide range of substances, from metals to polymers and ceramics. In the context of regenerative medicine, these materials are designed to mimic the extracellular matrix, providing a scaffold for tissue formation. A biomaterial scaffold is essential for supporting cellular attachment, proliferation, and differentiation. Classification and Selection of Biomaterials Biomaterials are generally classified into four primary types: Metals: Used for their strength and durability but limited due to potential corrosion. Ceramics: Biocompatible and often used for bone tissue engineering. Degradable Polymers: Break down over time making them suitable for temporary scaffolds. Nondegradable Polymers: Long-lasting and used for permanent implants. Hydrogels: Highly hydrophilic and can mimic the natural tissue environment. The selection of a particular biomaterial for regenerative medicine is based on: Biocompatibility Biodegradability Mechanical properties Physical characteristics Regenerative Medicine: A Primer Regenerative medicine is an interdisciplinary field that applies the principles of engineering and life sciences toward the repair, replacement, or regeneration of tissues or organs to restore or establish normal function. It relies heavily on the use of biomaterials to create environments conducive to cell growth and differentiation. Regenerative strategies include cell-based therapies, tissue-engineered organs, and the application of biomaterial scaffolds as templates for tissue regeneration. Design and Fabrication Approaches The creation of biomaterials for regenerative medicine involves sophisticated techniques to fabricate scaffolds that support tissue development. The methods must ensure biocompatibility and the appropriate microenvironment for cell growth and differentiation. Scaffold Fabrication Techniques Scaffold fabrication has to meet specific criteria depending on the application. Bone tissue engineering, for example, often employs scaffolds made of materials such as hydroxyapatite or tricalcium phosphate because of their osteoconductive properties. Electrospinning: used to create nanofibers that mimic the extracellular matrix, suitable for soft tissue engineering. 3D Printing: allows for the precise construction of scaffolds with customized shapes and sizes, beneficial for bone and cartilage tissue engineering. Solvent Casting and Particulate Leaching: often used with alginate or chitosan, providing porous scaffolds that encourage cell migration and nutrient transport. Advances in Hydrogel Technology Hydrogels stand out due to their high water content and ability to closely resemble living tissue. They are pivotal in scaffold design for their porosity and soft tissue compatibility. Synthesis: involves cross-linking hydrophilic polymers; often used hydrogels include those based on polyethylene glycol. Tailoring Properties: modifications such as incorporation of bioactive signals can enhance cellular responses. Alginate and hyaluronic acid hydrogels have seen extensive use, particularly for cartilage tissue engineering. Synthetic and Natural Biomaterials Synthetic polymers like PLGA (poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid)) and natural biomaterials like collagen and silk biomaterials each have unique advantages in regenerative medicine. Synthetic polymers: provide controlled degradation rates and mechanical strength, with customization possibilities for specific tissue targets. Natural biomaterials: Silk and collagen are widely used for their exceptional mechanical properties and biocompatibility. Functional and Novel Biomaterials: Efforts in synthesis have led to novel biomaterials that can respond to biological stimuli or incorporate inorganic components, including biopolymer-based inorganic biomaterials like bioactive glasses. Clinical Applications and Challenges In the arena of regenerative medicine, clinical applications of biomaterials confront various challenges, including ensuring tissue compatibility, optimising mechanical properties, and regulating stem cell fate. Biomaterials in Tissue Regeneration The use of biomaterials like decellularized extracellular matrix (ECM) and hyaluronic acid has showcased potential in tissue regeneration applications. Bone repair, for instance, leverages osteoconductive scaffolds to support osteogenic differentiation. Conversely, in nerve regeneration, bioactive scaffolds aim to facilitate directional growth. The efficacy of these materials is afflicted by their mechanical properties and their ability to integrate with host tissue and induce neovascularization. Stem Cells and Regenerative Medicine Incorporation of stem cells, including mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), embryonic stem cells, and induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs), into biomaterial constructs offers a powerful avenue for regenerative medicine. These cells can be directed towards specific lineages, such as chondrogenic differentiation for cartilage repair or progenitor cells for cardiac tissue repair. Integrating scaffolds with stem cell sheets has been a novel approach to address complex diseases and trauma. Biomedical Engineering in Clinical Settings Biomedical engineering intersects with clinical practice in orthopedics and organ regeneration, among others. For instance, the Mayo Clinic's Biomaterials and Regenerative Medicine Laboratory investigates biomaterials for bone grafts. A significant hurdle is the adaption of drug delivery systems to regulate inflammation and healing, with a current focus on modulating immune responses, such as macrophage behavior, in the regenerative processes.

Foundations of Microphysiological Systems Microphysiological systems (MPS) represent a culmination of advances in several scientific domains aimed at recreating human physiology outside the body. They harness the principles of systems biology, stem cell biology, and regenerative medicine to replicate the complex interplay of tissues and organs. Biomaterials play a crucial role in MPS, providing scaffolds that mimic the three-dimensional architecture of biological tissue. This structural complexity allows for more physiologically relevant cell cultures than traditional two-dimensional petri dishes. MPS technology often incorporates organs-on-chips or tissue chips, where microfluidics create an environment that simulates blood flow and other mechanical forces experienced by organs. The integration of pluripotent and induced pluripotent stem cells facilitates the generation of diverse cell types, offering a window into human physiology and disease mechanisms. These cells possess the plasticity required for creating tissue constructs that resemble real organ functionality. In drug development, MPS provide an invaluable platform for efficacy and toxicology testing, reducing the reliance on animal models and improving the predictability of human responses to new compounds. Through the combination of tissues and their interactions, MPS strive to replicate organ culture within a controlled setting that closely emulates living systems. The interplay of these components within MPS mirrors organ-level functions, making them a potent tool in the understanding and manipulation of human physiology for medical and research applications. Applications in Drug Discovery and Development Microphysiological systems (MPS) are revolutionizing drug discovery and development by offering improved models for toxicology, disease modeling, and pharmacology. These systems enhance the predictive accuracy of drug responses and safety profiles, thereby potentially reducing the attrition of drug candidates. Toxicology and Drug Safety MPS provide a dynamic platform for toxicology studies by simulating human tissue and organ responses to new compounds. Drug safety assessments benefit from these systems as they allow for the evaluation of drug exposure and toxicity with higher precision than traditional models. This capability facilitates early-stage risk assessment and informs safety profiles, in hopes of decreasing clinical trial failure rates due to adverse effects. Disease Modeling and Organoids In the realm of disease modeling, MPS can be designed to replicate disease states within organ-specific contexts. Organoids—miniaturized, simplified versions of organs—play a pivotal role here. They enable researchers to observe disease progression and organ functions in a controlled environment, which can lead to a deeper understanding of disease mechanisms and more effective drug discovery initiatives, moving towards personalized medicine. Pharmacology and Drug Screening Pharmacology studies benefit from MPS's capacity to model the complex interactions between drugs and biological systems. They have become an integral tool in drug screening processes by providing insights into the efficacy and mechanisms of action of new compounds. Utilizing these in vitro systems, researchers can rapidly assess the therapeutic potential of multiple drug candidates, thus accelerating the drug development lifecycle and improving clinical outcomes. Technological Advancements and Challenges The integration of bioengineering and microfluidic technologies heralds a progressive era for in vitro models, yet the road ahead is marked by both promise and considerable obstacles. Microfluidic Technologies and Organs-on-a-Chip Microfluidic technologies form the backbone of Organs-on-a-Chip (OoC) systems, harnessing miniature channels to replicate the fluid flow and cellular environments of human organs. These bioengineered devices have proven instrumental in studying drug metabolism, facilitating drug discovery, and providing insights into environmental toxicology. Multi-organ MPS, or Physiome-on-a-Chip, represents a cutting-edge implementation, aiming to mimic the complex physiology of human organ interactions. Advances in the field: National Institutes of Health and National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine have recognized the significance of this technology. Progress in creating human and animal MPS banks offers a portfolio of tools for researching systemic responses to substances. Challenges in Implementation However, significant challenges obstruct broader adoption in the pharmaceutical industry and other fields. Key among these is the reproducibility of results, as minor deviations in the chip manufacturing or operating processes can lead to drastically different outcomes. Limitations: Universal standards for construction and operation are still lacking. Complexity in replicating the exact physiological conditions of human tissue remains a hurdle. Necessity for areas of needed improvement such as long-term stability and integration into existing workflows.  By confronting these challenges, developers and researchers aim to refine microphysiological systems into reliable platforms for hazard identification and broader applications in human health and disease modeling.

Fundamentals of Tissue Engineering Tissue engineering stands at the crossroads of numerous scientific fields, fostering a multidisciplinary approach to develop functional biological substitutes. This section elaborates on the foundational aspects that underpin tissue engineering. Overview of Tissue Engineering Tissue engineering is an interdisciplinary field that applies the principles of engineering and life sciences toward the development of biological substitutes that restore, maintain, or improve tissue function. This field incorporates strategies involving the use of cells, engineering methods, and biochemical factors to construct tissues that can often mimic those found in the human body. Key Concepts in Tissue Engineering The core concepts in tissue engineering include understanding cell behavior, the role of the extracellular matrix (ECM), and the interaction of cells with scaffolds and biomaterials. Scaffolds are structured materials that house cells, guiding their growth and organization into functional tissues. These materials can be composed of a range of substances including collagen or biodegradable polymers. Biomaterials used in scaffolds must be chosen for their biocompatibility and ability to mimic the natural ECM, which offers both physical and biochemical cues to cells. Tissue Engineering Strategies There are numerous strategies in tissue engineering, such as seeded scaffold techniques, where cells are placed on or within a scaffold to create tissue; 3D bioprinting, which involves layer-by-layer precise placement of biological materials, cells and supporting components to generate tissue constructs; and decullarization, where cells are removed from a donor organ, leaving behind an ECM scaffold that can be repopulated with a recipient's own cells. The choice of strategy depends on the specific type and function of tissue to be engineered. Cell Sources for Tissue Engineering Cells are the fundamental units in tissue engineering and can be sourced from autologous, allogeneic, or xenogeneic origins. Mesenchymal stem cells are commonly used because of their ability to differentiate into a variety of cell types. Selecting the appropriate cell source hinges on factors such as availability, potential for cell proliferation, and compatibility with the tissue engineering application. Apart from living cells, biologically active molecules like growth factors can be used to stimulate cell growth and differentiation. Tissue Engineering Applications and Techniques Tissue engineering merges the principles of biology and engineering to develop tissue substitutes that repair, maintain, or improve the function of damaged human tissues and organs. This field employs a variety of methods and materials to address complex medical challenges. Repair and Regeneration of Damaged Tissue Tissue engineering has made significant progress in repairing and regenerating damaged tissues. This includes tissues of the heart, bone, and cartilage, which are critical to the human body's functionality. Approaches include combining scaffolds, cells (such as stem cells and progenitor cells), and bioactive molecules to facilitate in vivo regeneration. For instance, bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells are used to repair bone defects, fostered by the development of new blood vessels (vascularization) and cell adhesion techniques. Differentiation of cells is controlled to ensure that they develop into the desired tissue type. Drug Delivery and Organoid Systems Advancements in drug delivery and organoid systems have facilitated in vitro models for testing therapeutic strategies. Organoids are miniature, simplified versions of organs that mimic their complexity and functions. These systems, known as organs-on-a-chip, have revolutionized medical research by providing a more precise model for human physiology. They are used for studying drug effects and disease progression, allowing for more confident clinical translation. Hydrogels and nanomedicine approaches are often integrated with these systems for targeted drug delivery, enhancing the potential for personalized medicine. 3D Bioprinting in Tissue Engineering 3D bioprinting is at the forefront of tissue engineering technologies. Using a layer-by-layer method, this technique allows for the precise placement of cells and biomaterials to create complex tissue structures. 3D bioprinting has the potential to fabricate bioartificial tissues with intricate architectures, like vascular networks within engineered tissues. Pioneers such as Langer and Vacanti have noted its potential to not only regenerate tissues but also to help in creating artificial tissues for transplantation, pushing the boundaries beyond traditional sutures and surgical repairs. The integration of computational modeling and artificial intelligence has greatly improved the design and functionality of 3D-bioprinted tissues. Challenges and the Future of Tissue Engineering Tissue engineering stands at the forefront of regenerative medicine, aiming to repair or replace damaged organs and tissues. While progress has been significant, the field faces several clinical challenges, and emerging trends hint at an innovative future. Clinical Challenges in Tissue Engineering The path to clinical application of tissue engineering is hindered by complex biological challenges. One primary issue is securing dependable sources of cells that can repopulate and regenerate tissues. For instance, bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells present a promising cell source due to their plasticity and ability to differentiate. However, the efficient expansion and maintenance of these cells' potency remains a critical concern. Finding optimal biomaterials is also crucial; the ideal material should exhibit properties such as biocompatibility, biodegradability, and the ability to promote cell adhesion and proliferation. Collagen, for instance, has been widely used due to its natural occurrence in the human body and its role in providing structural support. Yet, its mechanical properties and immunogenicity need to be tightly controlled. In terms of organ repair, creating complex structures like vascularized tissues that can integrate seamlessly with the human circulatory system poses significant challenges. Vascularization is critical for delivering nutrients and oxygen to engineered tissues, thus ensuring the survival of transplanted cells. Additionally, innervation within bioengineered tissues is essential for restoring full functionality, particularly in tissues like skin, muscle, and organs. Another hurdle is the immunogenicity of tissue-engineered scaffolds, which must be minimized to prevent rejection. The development of tailored bioinks for 3D bioprinting aligns with this need, offering a platform for creating patient-specific tissues with reduced immune responses. Innovations and Emerging Trends Despite the challenges, the future of tissue engineering is bright with emerging trends and innovations. Advanced 3D bioprinting technologies are revolutionizing the way artificial tissues are created, allowing for the precise layering of cells and biomaterials to form complex, functional structures like heart tissue or vascular networks. Organoids and artificial tissues are being developed as platforms for drug delivery systems, aiding in personalized medicine by testing drugs on bioengineered tissues that mirror the patient’s own cells. This aligns closely with the goals of regenerative medicine, shifting the paradigm from treating symptoms to repairing the underlying issue. Cell therapies are becoming more sophisticated, with an emphasis on understanding and guiding cell behavior through computational models. This is where artificial intelligence steps in, offering predictive models for cell proliferation and differentiation that can drastically reduce the time and cost associated with experimental research. Regarding clinical translation, the integration of drug delivery mechanisms within tissue-engineered constructs is enhancing the therapeutic potential of these systems, providing localized, controlled release of medicinal agents directly where needed, thus maximizing efficacy and reducing systemic side effects.  In conclusion, the field of tissue engineering is rapidly evolving, with ongoing research addressing current challenges and advancements in technology paving the way for future breakthroughs. The combination of a deeper understanding of cell behavior, advancements in biomaterials, and innovative biofabrication techniques contribute to the accelerated progress towards successful clinical applications.

2024 The MTM Lab has been awarded an NIDDK R01 (National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases) grant to develop a novel microfluidic approach to elucidate the effects of soluble factor gradients, individually and in controlled combinations, on zonated functions in primary liver cells from rodents and humans towards determining species-specific effects . Ultimately, our novel devices can be used to investigate the mechanisms underlying liver zonation, chemical-induced zonated hepatotoxicity, and how zonation is perturbed in liver diseases, such as non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma. The MTM Lab has been awarded a NIEHS (National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences) grant to develop a high throughput system to test placental cell invasion using a 3D placental microtissue coupled with hepatic liver biotransformation . This first-of-its-kind hepatic-placenta organ-tandem on a chip will simulate the liver metabolism that chemicals undergo in vivo prior to reaching the placental bed. This state-of-the-art in vitro platform will be the first step towards incorporating organism-level organization into reproductive risk assessment using a non-animal-based approach. The MTM Lab has been awarded a NIEHS (National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences) grant to develop a human gut-liver platform with microbiome interactions for in vitro toxicology . These first-of-its-kind scalable human gut-liver models will be developed for in vitro applications, such as compound screening and disease modeling, and be used to elucidate the effects of reciprocal tissue crosstalk on cell phenotype modulation. 2023 The MTM Lab has been awarded a NIDDK (National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases) grant to analyze the synergistic effects of extracellular matrix composition and stiffness, multicellular interactions, and soluble triggers of NAFLD in cellular phenotypic alterations , which could aid the development of novel drug therapies for this disease. The MTM Lab has been awarded a NIAAA (National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism) grant to develop a first-of-its-kind organotypic mouse liver model and investigate the effects of alcohol on multiple liver cell types in this model with comparisons to an in vivo mouse model of ALD that recapitulates several key features of human ALD. This platform can aid in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying alcohol-associated liver disease.

Students in the MTM lab presented 12 abstracts at the 2023 Annual Meeting of the Biomedical Engineering Society in Seattle, WA.  Students in the MTM lab presented 11 abstracts in the form of 7 platform talks and 4 posters at the 2021 Annual Meeting of the Biomedical Engineering Society in Orlando, FL. Regeant Panday, a PhD student in the MTM lab, presented his work with 3D human liver tissues (poster) at the MicroTAS 2020 conference. The MTM lab presented 6 accepted abstracts (2 talks and 3 posters) at the Annual Meeting of the Biomedical Engineering Society. The MTM lab presented 8 abstracts, one as an oral presentation and seven as poster presentations at The Second Annual UIC Bioengineering Research Symposium. Congratulations to Grace Brown, Hardik Dabas, Demi Ibrahim, David Kukla, Jennifer Liu, Chase Monckton, Regeant Panday, and Yang Yuan for these presentations. The MTM lab presented 3 posters at the biannual meeting of the Center for Advanced Design and Manufacturing of Integrated Microfluidics (CADMIM) in Irvine, CA. Congratulations to Jennifer Liu, Grace Brown, and David Kukla for these presentations. The MTM lab presented 8 abstracts at the annual meeting of the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES), incluidng 3 oral presentations and 5 poster presentations. Congratulations to Grace Brown, David Kukla, Jennifer Liu, and Chase Monckton for these presentations. Dr. Khetani presented MTM lab's research on a microfluidic human liver model at the annual meeting of the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES) in Phoenix, AZ. David Kukla , Matt Davidson and Dr. Khetani presented MTM research in the form of oral talks and poster presentations at the annual meeting of the Biomedical Engineering Society (BMES) in Minneapolis, MN.

The MTM lab has experienced considerable growth over the last several years at the University of Illinois Chicago!

Histology, often referred to as microscopic anatomy, is the branch of biology focused on the detailed study of the structures of cells and tissues of organisms. This scientific investigation at the microscopic level encompasses various types of tissues including muscle, nervous tissue, epithelial tissue, and connective tissue. The comprehensive analysis through histological techniques reveals not just the static image of tissue architecture, but also gives insight into the dynamic processes and functions that maintain living organisms. To understand the complexities of human biology and the intricacies of various life forms, histology examines cells—the basic unit of life—and the way they work together to form tissues. By using specialized staining techniques and advanced imaging technologies, histologists can differentiate and visualize cell types and tissue structures, which provides a deeper understanding of how these biological components interact and influence overall organismal function. The significance of histology lies in its applicability across several domains including medical diagnostics, education, and research. By examining the minute structure of tissues, often in diseased states, histologists can aid in the diagnosis and understanding of diseases, contributing to the development of treatments and preventive measures. It serves as a bridge between the molecular and cellular biology and the classical anatomy, enabling researchers to answer foundational questions concerning the form and function of living organisms.