ABSTRACTSi-alkoxides in gas phase are reactive towards the surface of animal cells,
depositing a homogeneous layer of porous silica. This encapsulation method
preserves cell viability and does not alter the hindrance of the biological
load.In the prospective use for the design of a hybrid bioartificial liver,
hepatocytes in a collagen matrix can be entrapped by the siliceous deposit
which provides definite mechanical stability to the collagen matrix and
molecular cutoff vs. high molecular weight proteins, including
immunoglobulins. The functionality of the encapsulated cell load is
maintained for the expressions of typical liver and pancreas metabolic
activities.