Organotypic cultures as aging associated disease models

Area of Science:

• Gerontology and Regenerative Medicine
• Biomedical Engineering
• Tissue Engineering

Background:

• Aging is a major risk factor for numerous diseases, driven by complex multifactorial processes across multiple biological scales.
• Current in vivo models exhibit physiological differences and genetic modifications, while in vitro models lack systemic aging cues.
• Organotypic models offer enhanced physiological relevance, bridging the gap between in vivo and traditional in vitro research methods.

Approach:

• This review details recent advancements in tissue engineering for organotypic models relevant to aging.
• Examples from skin, gut, and skeletal muscle highlight the application of these models in aging research.
• Emphasis is placed on the accessibility and utility of these models for aging scientists.

Key Points:

• Tissue-engineered organotypic models provide greater physiological relevance than traditional models.
• Recent progress enables the study of aging and associated diseases with improved accuracy.
• Models in skin, gut, and skeletal muscle are specifically discussed with aging applications.

Conclusions:

• Organotypic models represent a significant advancement for aging research, offering improved physiological context.
• Researchers can leverage these accessible tissue-engineered models to investigate aging mechanisms and diseases.
• This review serves as a resource to encourage the adoption of organotypic models in aging studies.