Global Human Liver Models Market - 2025-2033

The global human liver models market reached US$ 1.37 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach US$ 3.76 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 12.3% during the forecast period of 2025-2033.

A human liver model is an advanced construct designed to imitate the physiological and functional attributes of the human liver. These models are mainly utilized for investigating drug toxicity, liver diseases, and the intricate spatial dynamics of liver anatomy. Sophisticated human liver models can exist in various formats, such as organoids, 3D bioprinted tissues, and liver-on-a-chip systems, all striving to replicate human liver physiology from the molecular level and beyond.

Market Dynamics: Drivers & Restraints

Increasing Prevalence of Liver Diseases

The growing prevalence of liver diseases is a key driver behind the expansion of the global human liver models market. This rising incidence generates an urgent need for sophisticated research tools that can improve our understanding of liver function, disease processes, and drug interactions.

According to a BMC Endocrine Disorders research publication in March 2022, the global prevalence of chronic liver conditions, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), viral hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer, is increasing significantly. For example, NAFLD has emerged as the most prevalent chronic liver disorder in Western countries, affecting roughly 25% of the global population.

Furthermore, key players' strategies, such as partnerships & collaborations, awareness programs, and innovative product launches, would drive this market growth. For instance, in February 2024, the collaboration to develop liver organoids for drug toxicity screening is a significant initiative aimed at improving the safety and efficacy of new medications during the drug development process. This project, led by the CuSTOM Accelerator Lab at Cincinnati Children's Hospital, is part of Danaher Corporation's "Beacons" program and focuses on harnessing the potential of human liver organoids as a tool for preclinical testing.

Similarly, in February 2023, CN Bio introduced the Physio Mimix Single-organ Higher Throughput (HT) System, aimed at improving the use of predictive human liver models in drug discovery. This innovative system tackles existing challenges that hinder the widespread adoption of these models, allowing researchers to perform larger-scale comparative studies to evaluate the efficacy, disposition, and safety of drug candidates at earlier stages in the development process.

High Costs of Human Liver Models

One of the primary challenges facing the global human liver models market is the high cost associated with developing and maintaining advanced models. Technologies such as 3D bioprinting, organoids, and organ-on-a-chip systems are at the forefront of innovation but require sophisticated infrastructure and specialized equipment. These platforms are not only expensive to procure but also to operate and maintain, involving advanced materials, consumables, and a high degree of precision. This makes them financially inaccessible for many smaller research institutions, startups, and facilities in emerging markets.

In addition, the cost of sourcing and using human-derived cells, particularly primary human hepatocytes, is remarkably high. These cells are difficult to obtain due to ethical constraints, limited donor availability, and strict quality control standards. Maintaining their viability and function in culture adds further expenses, as it requires enriched media, growth factors, and tightly regulated environmental conditions.

Segment Analysis

The global human liver models market is segmented based on product type, application, end-user, and region.

Product Type:

The 3D models segment in product type is expected to dominate the global human liver models market with the highest market share

Conventional 2D cell cultures, which frequently do not accurately mimic the intricate architecture and microenvironment of human tissues, 3D liver models offer a more authentic representation of in vivo conditions. These models integrate various cell types and structural elements that are crucial for effectively studying liver function and drug responses. Recent developments in 3D bioprinting methods have enhanced the viability and functionality of liver cells in these models. For instance, researchers have effectively printed liver tissues that incorporate vascular structures, facilitating improved delivery of nutrients and oxygen, which is essential for sustaining cell health and function over extended periods.

Moreover, key players in the industry are more focused on the ongoing research studies on liver cells and investments that would propel this segment's growth in the market. For instance, in June 2024, Mini liver models, particularly the development of 3D liver spheroids, are set to improve the effectiveness of drug testing significantly. Researchers at King's College London (KCL) have developed a laboratory-grown Mini liver model that integrates liver cells with a synthetic nano scaffold. This novel approach enables the mini liver to more accurately replicate the structure and function of the human liver compared to conventional 2D cell culture models.

Similarly, in April 2024, Bayland Capital and CN Innovations Holdings Ltd, the founding shareholders, are set to invest $10 million and $5.5 million, respectively. This funding will support the expansion of product development and scaling efforts within the organization to meet the growing demand for Organ-on-a-Chip (OOC) solutions. These factors have solidified the segment's position in the global human liver models market.

Geographical Analysis

North America is expected to hold a significant position in the global human liver models market with the highest market share

The increasing prevalence of liver diseases, including non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), hepatitis, cirrhosis, and liver cancer, is a major factor driving the growth of the human liver model market. According to the American Liver Foundation, in September 2023, around 4.5 million adults in the U.S. were affected by liver disease. This rising incidence underscores the urgent need for advanced human liver models that can offer deeper insights into liver function and disease mechanisms, ultimately enhancing the drug discovery process.

Advancements in 3D bioprinting and organ-on-a-chip technologies have greatly enhanced the precision and effectiveness of human liver models. These innovations enable researchers to develop models that are more physiologically relevant and accurately replicate human liver conditions. Moreover, in this region, key players' strategies such as partnerships & collaboration, well-advanced healthcare infrastructure, R&D activities, government initiatives & regulatory bodies' support are driving this market growth.

For instance, in January 2024, CN Bio and Altis Biosystems entered into a strategic partnership to create a next-generation human Gut/Liver in vitro model aimed at improving ADME (Absorption, Distribution, Metabolism, and Excretion) studies. This collaboration combines Altis' RepliGut Planar-Jejunum model with CN Bio's PhysioMimix Liver-on-a-Chip, resulting in a comprehensive microphysiological system (MPS) that simulates inter-organ communication and accurately reflects the oral drug administration process.

Additionally, in September 2023, UC Davis Health introduced a new liver transplant program, representing a significant advancement in its transplant services. This program is set to resume operations after being temporarily closed, with plans to begin accepting patients in the spring of 2023. Thus, the above factors are consolidating the region's position as a dominant force in the global human liver models market.

Competitive Landscape

The major global players in the human liver models market include Corning Incorporated, BioIVT LLC, Emulate Inc., InSphero, Organovo Holdings Inc., MIMETAS B.V., CN Bio Innovations Ltd, CELLINK, Visikol, Inc., and Cyprotex PLC, among others.

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• Pipeline & Innovations: Reviews ongoing clinical trials and product pipelines and forecasts upcoming advancements in medical devices and pharmaceuticals.
• Product Performance & Market Positioning: Analyzed product performance, market positioning, and growth potential to optimize strategies.
• Real-World Evidence: Integrates patient feedback and data into product development for improved outcomes.
• Physician Preferences & Health System Impact: Examines healthcare provider behaviors and the impact of health system mergers on adoption strategies.
• Market Updates & Industry Changes: This covers recent regulatory changes, new policies, and emerging technologies.
• Competitive Strategies: Analyze competitor strategies, market share, and emerging players.
• Pricing & Market Access: Reviews pricing models, reimbursement trends, and market access strategies.
• Market Entry & Expansion: Identifies optimal strategies for entering new markets and partnerships.
• Regional Growth & Investment: Highlights high-growth regions and investment opportunities.
• Supply Chain Optimization: Assesses supply chain risks and distribution strategies for efficient product delivery.
• Sustainability & Regulatory Impact: Focuses on eco-friendly practices and evolving regulations in healthcare.
• Post-market Surveillance: Uses post-market data to enhance product safety and access.
• Pharmacoeconomics & Value-Based Pricing: Analyzes the shift to value-based pricing and data-driven decision-making in R&D.

The global human liver models market report delivers a detailed analysis with 62 key tables, more than 53 visually impactful figures, and 176 pages of expert insights, providing a complete view of the market landscape.

Target Audience 2024

• Manufacturers: Pharmaceutical, Medical Device, Biotech Companies, Contract Manufacturers, Distributors, Hospitals.
• Regulatory & Policy: Compliance Officers, Government, Health Economists, Market Access Specialists.
• Technology & Innovation: AI/Robotics Providers, R&D Professionals, Clinical Trial Managers, Pharmacovigilance Experts.
• Investors: Healthcare Investors, Venture Fund Investors, Pharma Marketing & Sales.
• Consulting & Advisory: Healthcare Consultants, Industry Associations, Analysts.
• Supply Chain: Distribution and Supply Chain Managers.
• Consumers & Advocacy: Patients, Advocacy Groups, Insurance Companies.
• Academic & Research: Academic Institutions.