Improving the preservation of human livers for transplantation

Extended preservation of human livers: a nature inspired, high subzero controlled, limited freezing approach

NIH-funded research Sylvatica Biotech, INC. · NIH-10916373

This study is looking at a new way to freeze human livers so they can stay healthy for longer, making it easier to match them with patients who need a transplant, which could help save more lives.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 2 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSylvatica Biotech, INC. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (North Charleston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10916373 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on extending the preservation time of human livers to improve the chances of successful transplantation. By using a nature-inspired, controlled freezing approach, the study aims to keep livers viable for several days, which would allow for better matching between donors and recipients across greater distances. This could potentially reduce the number of patients who die waiting for a liver transplant and improve overall outcomes for those who receive transplants. The research involves innovative techniques in cryopreservation and aims to address the current limitations in liver transplantation logistics.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients with acute liver failure or those on the liver transplant waitlist who may benefit from improved donor organ availability.

Not a fit: Patients with stable liver conditions who do not require transplantation may not receive any benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly increase the availability of transplantable livers and improve survival rates for patients with liver failure.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of extending liver preservation is innovative, similar advancements in organ preservation have shown promise in other fields, suggesting potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

North Charleston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.