Drug discovery is a complex and expensive process that requires a significant amount of time and resources. Traditional 2D cell culture models have been the gold standard for drug discovery for decades, but they have their limitations. These models do not accurately represent the in vivo environment, which can lead to inaccurate predictions of drug efficacy and toxicity. However, with the development of advanced 3D tissue models, such as MatTek Life Science’s EpiAirway 3D in vitro Microtissues, drug discovery is being revolutionized.
3D cell culture models have been gaining popularity in recent years due to their ability to better mimic the in vivo environment. These models allow for the growth of cells in three dimensions, which more closely resemble the structure and function of human tissues. This is in contrast to 2D cell culture models, which grow cells in a flat, two-dimensional layer. With the 3D structure of these models, it becomes possible to form complex tissue formations. This feature is particularly useful for exploring the intricacies of human diseases and for developing new pharmaceutical treatments.
The Utility of 3D Tissue Models: EpiAirway
One of the key advantages of using 3D tissue models over traditional 2D cell culture models is their ability to recapitulate in vivo responses. EpiAirway tissues, for example, are derived from normal human tracheal/bronchial epithelial cells. Human fibroblasts are also present in an extracellular stromal matrix. This allows for the modeling of barrier and mucociliary responses, infection, toxicity responses, and disease, which are crucial for predicting drug efficacy and toxicity.
EpiAirway’s ability to recapitulate in vivo responses has made it an invaluable tool in a variety of research areas. For example, EpiAirway has been used in anti-viral research to study respiratory virus attachment, replication, and innate immune responses. It has also been used to assess the permeation and flux of active pharmaceutical ingredients(APIs) for drug delivery. In addition, EpiAirway can be used to determine relative safety with the EpiAirway ED-25 assay for inhalation toxicology. It can also be employed to elucidate molecular pathways and assess therapeutic efficacy for inflammation and fibrosis research.
EpiAirway Ready to Use Kits
Another advantage of EpiAirway is the ease of use. Simple protocols and the evaluation of early cellular endpoints allow scientists to acquire data in days, not weeks or months. These tissue cultures can continue to be bio-active for three months or more with good retention of normal morphology. EpiAirway is available in several formats, including individual inserts, 6.5mm Transwell inserts, and 96-well HTS plates. Tissue kits contain tissues, a small amount of culture medium, and plasticware. Tissues may be stored at 4°C for up to 3 days prior to use. All tissue kits within a lot are identical in regards to cells, medium, handling, culture conditions, etc.
Mattek Life Sciences offers quality control and sterility testing for EpiAirway, including visual inspection, TEER measurement, and screening for pathogens. If a tissue lot fails QC or sterility testing, the customer will be notified and the tissues will be replaced without charge when appropriate.
In conclusion, advanced 3D tissue models such as EpiAirway 3D in vitro Microtissues are revolutionizing drug discovery. These models offer a more accurate representation of the in vivo environment. This is crucial for better predicting drug efficacy and toxicity. EpiAirway’s ability to recapitulate in vivo responses has made it an invaluable tool in a variety of research areas, including anti-viral research, drug delivery, and inhalation toxicology. With its ease of use and availability in several formats, EpiAirway is a valuable asset for scientists and researchers looking to study the biology of respiratory diseases and the development of pharmaceuticals.
To learn more about EpiAirway 3D in vitro Microtissues, please reach out to a member of our team.
