COVID-19 highlights the model dilemma in biomedical research

Nat Rev Mater. 2021;6(5):374-376. doi: 10.1038/s41578-021-00305-z. Epub 2021 Mar 17.

Abstract

Scientists worldwide struggle to identify suitable animal models to study SARS-CoV-2 infections. Interspecies-related differences, such as host specificity, divergent immune responses, or the unavailability of species-specific reagents hamper the research. Human-based models, such as micro-engineered multi-organs-on-chip, may hold the solution.

Keywords: Biomaterials; Pharmacology; Preclinical research.