The Spheroid Reservoir Bioartificial Liver (SRBAL) System developed and patented by the Mayo Clinic utilizes metabolically active primary hepatocytes to replace or supplement liver function for ICU patients in liver failure. Artificial liver support, which combines a biological component with hemodialysis, requires the use of stable liver cells with normal metabolic profiles. Primary hepatocytes (derived directly from liver tissue) are the only cells that possess the full complement of required functions to ensure adequate detoxification and metabolism. The SRBAL addresses these challenges.