A newly published study has highlighted how Likarda’s in-house hydrogel delivery technology could overcome a major challenge in liver cell-based therapies – safely extending cell viability without triggering an immune response.

The paper, published in Tissue Engineering on Tuesday (April 22), presents findings from a preclinical study comparing two encapsulation approaches for hepatocyte transplantation. Likarda’s Core-Shell Spherification (CSS) platform, which uses poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) microspheres instead of alginate, demonstrated superior cell durability and function while avoiding fibrosis.

“Our hydrogel platform appears to address the immune challenges that have historically limited the success of hepatocyte therapies,” said Dr Stephen Harrington, lead author of the study and a senior researcher at Likarda.

Common method halted by immune response

Liver cell therapy has long been seen as a promising alternative to organ transplant for patients with end-stage liver disease. However, previous approaches have largely failed due to short-lived cell survival and adverse immune responses. One such effort involving alginate-encapsulated cells was halted in clinical development after it triggered inflammation and fibrotic tissue formation.

The new research compared hepatocyte performance in vitro and in vivo when delivered in CSS-PVA microspheres versus alginate microspheres. The cells encapsulated in the CSS material exhibited higher metabolic activity, improved viability, and maintained liver-specific functions longer. Importantly, they did not provoke the immune reactions commonly associated with alginate, such as fibrosis.

Versatile platform for broader use

“These promising results further support the versatility of hydrogel-based encapsulation,” said Lisa Stehno-Bittel, an author on the paper and co-founder of Likarda. “Especially when added to previous studies demonstrating safety and durability of CSS-encapsulated stem cells, as well as successful and durable in vivo islet delivery in a model of diabetes.”

She added: “On the strength of these findings, we are exploring opportunities to partner with liver cell therapy developers to deliver a treatment for this devastating disease.”

Likarda said the findings not only support CSS for hepatocyte delivery but also suggest broader applications in other cell-based therapies and biologic delivery strategies. The company is continuing to investigate CSS for use in diabetes, oncology, and regenerative medicine, where local immune modulation and durable cell function are critical.

The company describes its Core-Shell Spherification (CSS) technology as a customizable polymer platform designed to protect therapeutic payloads, enable targeted delivery, and increase residence time at the intended site of action. Likarda believes this approach could reduce the need for immunosuppressants and improve outcomes in multiple indications.