Organoid and microfluidics-based platforms for drug screening in COVID-19
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Published on: December 23, 2022
Roya Ramezankhani1, Roya Solhi2, Yoke Chin Chai3
1Department of Applied Cell Sciences, Faculty of Basic Science and Advanced Medical Technologies, Royan Institute, ACECR, Tehran, Iran; Department of Development and Regeneration, Stem Cell Biology and Embryology, KU Leuven Stem Cell Institute, Leuven, Belgium; Department of Regenerative Medicine, Cell Science Research Center, Royan Institute for Stem Cell Biology and Technology, Academic Center for Education, Culture and Research, ACECR, Tehran, Iran.
Abstract:
Proposing efficient prophylactic and therapeutic strategies for coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) requires precise knowledge of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pathogenesis. An array of platforms, including organoids and microfluidic devices, have provided a basis for studies of SARS-CoV-2. Here, we summarize available models as well as novel drug screening approaches, from simple to more advanced platforms. Notably, organoids and microfluidic devices offer promising perspectives for the clinical translation of basic science, such as screening therapeutics candidates. Overall, modifying these advanced micro and macro 3D platforms for disease modeling and combining them with recent advances in drug screening has significant potential for the discovery of novel potent drugs against COVID-19.
Insights
Advanced 3D models like organoids and microfluidic devices aid SARS-CoV-2 research. These platforms accelerate the discovery of potent COVID-19 therapeutics through improved drug screening and disease modeling.
Area of Science:
- Virology and Drug Discovery
- Biomedical Engineering
- Infectious Disease Research
Background:
- Understanding severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) pathogenesis is crucial for developing effective COVID-19 treatments.
- Existing research models provide a foundation for studying SARS-CoV-2, but advanced platforms offer enhanced insights.
- The need for precise knowledge drives the development of novel approaches for studying viral diseases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and summarize existing and novel platforms for studying SARS-CoV-2.
- To highlight the potential of organoids and microfluidic devices in SARS-CoV-2 research.
- To explore advanced drug screening approaches for identifying COVID-19 therapeutics.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on SARS-CoV-2 modeling platforms.
- Analysis of organoid and microfluidic device applications in virology.
- Evaluation of various drug screening methodologies, from basic to advanced.
- Discussion of 3D platform modifications for disease modeling.
Main Results:
- Organoids and microfluidic devices serve as valuable platforms for SARS-CoV-2 research.
- These advanced models facilitate the screening of therapeutic candidates.
- Integration of 3D platforms with drug screening advances shows promise.
Conclusions:
- Organoids and microfluidic devices offer promising avenues for clinical translation of basic science findings.
- Modifying advanced 3D platforms enhances disease modeling capabilities for COVID-19.
- Combining these platforms with novel drug screening techniques holds significant potential for discovering new COVID-19 drugs.
