Harnessing the Regenerative Microenvironment of the Liver Surface: A Perihepatic Niche for Stem Cell Integration and Survival

Many stem cell therapies fail because transplanted cells do not survive. One of the most advanced examples of stem cell therapy is the use of adult stem-cell–derived insulin-producing β-cells to treat diabetes. Early clinical studies show promise, but most transplanted cells still do not survive long enough to provide lasting benefit. This project aims to improve survival of transplanted cells by quickly connecting them to the blood supply through a biologically supportive site on the surface of the liver, called the perihepatic space. More broadly, this work will establish a platform that could support other cell types, including liver, adrenal, and thyroid cells, as well as engineered tissues for heart or nerve repair. The long-term aim is to make regenerative therapies safer, more reliable, and more widely accessible.