Advances in perfusion propel 3D in vitro tissue models to new applications
Advances in perfusion propel 3D in vitro tissue models to new applications lead image
In addition to revolutionizing the drug discovery process and personalized medicine, 3D in vitro cell cultures present both promising solutions and challenges. Understanding the significance of fluid flow in the creation of physiologically relevant 3D models is crucial for further advancements. However, the technically demanding nature of these models requires enhanced control and understanding before their widespread application.
Juste-Lanas et al. sheds light on the importance of incorporating fluid flow in 3D perfusable microfluidic devices. Their review highlights recent progress in the development of 3D vascularized organ models whilst identifying current limitations and future challenges in reproducing complex organ microenvironments.
“The new bioengineering developments allow reliable physiological recreation in vitro, where fluid flow is key to transport nutrients and drugs, as well as to mechanically stimulate cells, making them move, proliferate, or simply behave differently,” said author Yago Juste Lanas.
Functional vasculature in in vitro 3D tissues and advancements in 3D bioprinting stands to push the tissue engineering field further by creating intricate 3D structures that mimic natural tissues and organs.
Developments have shown promise for modeling other crucial physiological features, including lymphatic vessels and improved fluid flow between cells and from vasculature to engineered tissues. A variety of perfusion systems demonstrate several blood-pumping options for future researchers to emulate different parts of the body.
“A puzzling foreseen challenge is the engineering of personalized ‘humans-on-chips’ in which several organs derived from a patient are integrated in the presence of vascular, immune, and microbiome compartments,” said author Alejandra González-Loyola.
The group intends to focus on refining in vitro models to facilitate the development of advanced cancer therapies, like immunotherapy or nanoparticle treatment.
Source: “Fluid flow to mimic organ function in 3D in vitro models,” by Yago Juste-Lanas, Silvia Hervas-Raluy, José Manuel García-Aznar, and Alejandra González-Loyola, APL Bioengineering (2023). The article can be accessed at https://doi.org/10.1063/5.0146000 .
