3D-biohybrid systems: applications in drug screening

Trends Biotechnol. 2002 Feb;20(2):56-61. doi: 10.1016/s0167-7799(01)01880-7.

Abstract

Biotechnology demands powerful methods for the functional characterisation and monitoring of molecular alterations in tissues in response to various stimuli. Currently, cellular biosensors provide information about cell and tissue internal transduction pathways. In this article, recent biosensor systems are briefly described and the use of 3D tissue aggregates as recognition elements is discussed. An example of an innovative approach for drug testing using 3D heart muscle aggregates, as well as tumor models, positioned in capillary systems for electrical potential recording and impedance measurement is described. The effectiveness of drugs and therapies can be tested and monitored in a short time using such biohybrid sensors.

MeSH terms

  • Action Potentials
  • Animals
  • Biosensing Techniques / methods*
  • Biosensing Techniques / trends
  • Capillaries / cytology
  • Capillaries / physiology
  • Drug Evaluation, Preclinical / methods*
  • Drug Evaluation, Preclinical / trends
  • Electric Impedance
  • Humans
  • Models, Biological*
  • Myocardium / cytology
  • Myocardium / metabolism
  • Treatment Outcome