New Trends in Three-Dimensional Model Systems for Regenerative and Pharmacological Approaches

Dear Colleagues,

Three-dimensional (3D) cell culture systems have opened new horizons towards regenerative and diagnostic processes in relation to stem cells. Three-dimensional cultures of various embryonic stem cells, adult stem cells and induced pluripotent stem cells have already been established.

Stem cells have been extensively studied for tissue regeneration purposes as they are easily accessible and process a great multilineage differentiation potential. For instance, mesenchymal stem cells have the capacity to self-renew and differentiate into various cell types, such as neural cells, adipocytes, chondrocytes, osteocytes, etc., and they can form simple or complex 3D structures (e.g., spheroids, organoids) in specific culture conditions. A similar behavior has been demonstrated by 3D cultures of epithelial stem cells.

Three-dimensional culture models can reproduce complex structures and the physiology of living tissues more efficiently than 2D cultures and, therefore, are more reliable for stem-cell-based regenerative approaches, drug testing, and tissue-specific disease modeling.

The current Special Issue focuses on new trends and advances of 3D in vitro models (e.g., spheroids, organoids, microfluidic devices) in stem cell research. These novel technological platforms combining other disciplines, such as genetics, bioinformatics, nanotechnology, pharmacology, etc., are of great importance for translational research and future clinical applications.

Authors are invited to contribute original research articles and reviews in this Special Issue focused on 3D culture models and stem cells for new regenerative medical applications.

Prof. Dr. Thimios A. Mitsiadis
Dr. Deborah Stanco
Dr. Guya Diletta Marconi
Guest Editors

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• Stem cells
• Mesenchymal stem cells
• Epithelial stem cells
• Spheroids
• Organoids
• Microfluidic devices
• Organ-on-a-chip
• Regenerative medicine
• Drug screening