Abstract: The invention provides human regeneration-associated serpin-1 (RASP-1) polypeptide and nucleic acid molecules that encode RASP-1. Also included in the invention are diagnostic and therapeutic methods using RASP-1 polypeptides and nucleic acids.

Abstract: An organ support system and method adapted for use with a patient and designed to modify the blood from the patient includes a control system, a venous line coupled to an output of a patient, an arterial line coupled to an input of the patient, and a cell line inserted into a hollow fiber cartridge to form an organ assist device. Blood is passed through the organ assist device. A small flow is extracted from the extracapillary space to check the integrity of the organ assist device. With this closed loop arrangement, a proper fluid balance can be maintained for the patient without requiring any dialysate, and leaks from the cell line to the patient can be immediately detected and prevented from reaching the patient.