Drug discovery is a complex and expensive process that requires a significant amount of time and resources. Traditional 2D cell culture models have been the gold standard for drug discovery for decades, but they have their limitations. These models do not accurately represent the complex in vivo environment, which can lead to inaccurate predictions of drug efficacy and toxicity. However, with the development of advanced 3D tissue models, such as MatTek Life Sciences’ EpiAirway 3D Microtissues, drug discovery is being revolutionized.
3D cell culture models have been gaining popularity in recent years due to their ability to better mimic in vivo human biology. These models allow for the growth of cells in three dimensions, which more closely resembles the structure and function of human tissues. This is in contrast to 2D cell culture models, which grow cells in a flat, two-dimensional layer. The 3D structure of these models allows for the formation of complex tissue structures, such as organoids and spheroids, which can be used to study the biology of disease and the development of pharmaceuticals.
One of the key advantages of using 3D tissue models over traditional 2D cell culture models is their ability to recapitulate in vivo responses. EpiAirway 3D Microtissues, for example, are derived from normal human tracheal/bronchial epithelial cells and incorporate human fibroblasts in an extracellular stromal matrix. This allows for the modeling of barrier and mucociliary responses, infection, toxicity responses, and disease, which are crucial for predicting drug efficacy and toxicity.
EpiAirway’s ability to recapitulate in vivo responses has made it an invaluable tool in a variety of research areas. For example, EpiAirway is used in anti-viral research to study respiratory virus attachment, replication, and innate immune responses. It is also used to assess the permeation and flux of APIs for drug delivery. In addition, EpiAirway determines relative safety with the EpiAirway IC-75 assay for inhalation toxicology. It can also be employed to elucidate molecular pathways and assess therapeutic efficacy for inflammation and fibrosis research.
Another advantage of EpiAirway 3D in vitro Microtissues is their ease of use. Simple protocols and the evaluation of early cellular endpoints allow scientists to acquire data in days instead of weeks or months. Tissue cultures can be continued for three months or more with good retention of normal morphology. EpiAirway is available in several formats, including individual inserts, Transwell inserts, and 96-well HTS plates. Tissue kits contain tissues, a small amount of culture medium, and plasticware. Tissues may be stored at 4°C for up to 3 days prior to use. All tissue kits within a lot are identical in regards to cells, medium, handling, and culture conditions. MatTek Life Sciences performs rigorous quality control and sterility testing for EpiAirway, including visual inspection, TEER measurement, and screening for pathogens.
In conclusion, advanced 3D tissue models such as EpiAirway 3D Microtissues are revolutionizing drug discovery. These models offer a more accurate representation of the in vivo environment, which is crucial for predicting drug efficacy and toxicity. EpiAirway’s ability to recapitulate in vivo responses has made it an invaluable tool in a variety of research areas, including anti-viral research, drug delivery, and inhalation toxicology. With its ease of use and availability in several formats, EpiAirway is a valuable asset for scientists and researchers looking to study the biology of disease and the development of pharmaceuticals.
To learn more about EpiAirway 3D Microtissues, visit our website.