Construction Strategies and Advances in Bone Marrow Microphysiological Systems

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Hematology
• Stem Cell Biology

Background:

• The bone marrow niche is crucial for hematopoiesis but difficult to study using traditional methods.
• Existing 2D cultures and animal models lack the complexity of the native bone marrow microenvironment.
• This limits research into hematopoietic regulation, disease pathogenesis, and drug effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current strategies for engineering bone marrow microphysiological systems (MPS).
• To highlight the importance of cellular components, biomaterials, vascularization, and perfusion in biomimetic bone marrow models.
• To discuss advanced models for vascular niches, bone tissue, and metastasis.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of literature on bone marrow MPS construction.
• Focus on three-dimensional organoids and microfluidic "on-a-chip" platforms.
• Analysis of key engineering aspects: cellular composition, scaffolds, vascular networks, and perfusion.

Main Results:

• Bone marrow MPS offer improved recapitulation of the native hematopoietic microenvironment.
• These systems integrate cellular, material, and architectural elements for biomimicry.
• Advanced models are being developed for complex biological scenarios like vascularization and metastasis.

Conclusions:

• Bone marrow MPS provide a physiologically relevant in vitro platform for hematopoietic research.
• These models enhance disease modeling and drug evaluation.
• They support advancements in precision and regenerative medicine.