3D printed scaffolds: Challenges toward developing relevant cellular in vitro models.

Area of Science:

• Biotechnology
• Tissue Engineering
• In Vitro Modeling

Background:

• Increasing demand for in vitro systems that better replicate human physiology.
• Emergence of three-dimensional (3D) cell culture technology.
• Development of microphysiological systems using 3D culture and 3D-printing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of challenges in developing 3D in vitro systems using printed scaffolds.
• To highlight limitations of current 3D in vitro models.
• To assess the potential of 3D cell culture and 3D-printing technologies.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on 3D cell culture and 3D-printing technologies.
• Analysis of existing microphysiological systems and their performance.
• Identification of challenges and limitations in the development process.

Main Results:

• 3D cell culture combined with 3D-printing offers improved biofabrication potential and predictive power over traditional in vitro systems.
• Most developed 3D in vitro systems have not yet found long-term applications.
• Significant challenges and limitations exist in the development and implementation of these advanced models.

Conclusions:

• 3D cell culture and 3D-printing technologies hold significant promise for creating more physiologically relevant in vitro models.
• Addressing the identified challenges and limitations is crucial for the successful translation of these systems into long-term applications.
• Further research and development are needed to overcome the hurdles in creating robust and widely applicable 3D in vitro systems.