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Studies on Osteocytes in Their 3D Native Matrix Versus 2D In Vitro Models
Chen Zhang1,2, Astrid D Bakker1, Jenneke Klein-Nulend1
1Department of Oral Cell Biology, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Academic Centre for Dentistry Amsterdam (ACTA), University of Amsterdam and Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
Current Osteoporosis Reports
|June 27, 2019
Summary
This review explores in vitro models for studying osteocytes, the bone cells crucial for homeostasis. It highlights 3D models as superior to 2D cultures for mimicking native environments and studying osteocyte function.
Area of Science:
- Bone biology
- Cell biology
- Biomedical engineering
Background:
- Osteocytes are key bone cells for mechanosensing and homeostasis.
- Their native environment within calcified matrix poses isolation challenges.
- Understanding osteocyte function requires suitable in vitro models.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review established and novel in vitro models for osteocyte research.
- To compare the advantages and disadvantages of different osteocyte culture systems.
- To inform the selection of appropriate models for studying osteocyte function.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on osteocyte in vitro models.
- Comparison of 2D monolayer cultures with emerging 3D models.
- Analysis of osteocyte-like cell lines and primary osteocyte cultures.
Main Results:
- 2D monolayer cultures are common but have limitations.
- 3D models better replicate the native osteocyte environment.
- 3D models demonstrate superior osteocyte morphology and behavior.
- Both cell lines and primary cells can be utilized in 2D and 3D.
Conclusions:
- 3D in vitro models offer significant advantages for studying osteocytes.
- These advanced models facilitate the development of disease models.
- Careful consideration of model limitations is essential for accurate research.
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