Japanese scientists succeeded for the first time to "grow" in the laboratory miniature human liver from stem cells, according to the journal Nature, quoted by the BBC.
Researchers from the University of Yokohama have been using reprogrammed stem cells that become the hepatocytes (liver cells).
Scientists transplanted into mice tiny body began to grow and shows no signs of performance.
However biologists warn that the method will have to be further developed, so that the artificial organ can be used to treat patients. Researchers believe that the work of these miniature livers could replace only 30% of the body of the patient, says New York Times.
The liver, however, is known for its high regenerative capacity and therefore the sick who need a new organ is often implanted a small part of it taken from a living donor. This gives hope that the discovery of Japanese scientists could solve the problem of the shortage of organs for transplantation in the future.