3D-cell culture models workshop

To download the workshop report, please click here

Date and location:

22nd-25th October 2012, Steigenberger Hotel, Konstanz, Germany

Outline:

The first 3D cultures have been established to better mimic the in vivo situation with respect to functional and physiological parameters than classical 2D in vitro models. Now, engineered tissues and 3D- cell cultures modeling the liver or aspects of the nervous system, the skin, the respiratory system, the intestine, the heart and other organs are employed more and more in research. However, the use in toxicological research is still relatively limited, and only few of these systems have found regulatory acceptance.

The 3D models pose technical challenges in addition to those of 2D cultures. These are based on a more complex experimental set-up, which necessitates the use of modified or different endpoints compared to 2D cultures.
This workshop will focus on the applicability of 3D systems to model human physiology and pathophysiology with particular focus on toxicological risk assessment. The systems presented will include hepatic, neuronal, lung and skin models. Besides an in-depth discussion of available systems, also the way and hurdles to the regulatory acceptance will be highlighted.