Investigating the toxicity of nanoparticles using 3D human liver tissues
Studying Nanotoxicity Using Bioprinted Human Liver Tissues
This study is exploring how tiny particles called nanoparticles affect liver cells by creating realistic 3D models of the liver, which could help make sure that new medical uses of these particles are safe for patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10654014 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how nanoparticles (NPs) affect human liver cells by developing advanced 3D models that mimic the liver's natural environment. Instead of relying on traditional animal models or 2D cell cultures, this study aims to create multicellular liver models using bioprinting technology, which will allow for more accurate predictions of NP toxicity. By incorporating various cell types and extracellular matrix components, the research seeks to improve the physiological relevance of liver toxicity assessments. Patients may benefit from this work as it could lead to safer biomedical applications of nanotechnology.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who may be exposed to nanoparticle-based therapies or those with liver conditions that could be affected by such treatments.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have liver-related health issues or are not exposed to nanoparticle therapies may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer use of nanoparticles in medical treatments and drug delivery systems.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been some studies using 3D human liver models, this approach is innovative and aims to enhance the accuracy of toxicity predictions compared to previous methods.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Shaochen — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Chen, Shaochen
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.