Three-dimensional perfused cell culture

Biotechnol Adv. 2014 Mar-Apr;32(2):243-54. doi: 10.1016/j.biotechadv.2013.10.006. Epub 2013 Oct 29.

Abstract

Compelling evidence suggests the limitation and shortcomings of the current and well established cell culture method using multi-well plates, flasks and Petri dishes. These are particularly important when cell functions are sensitive to the local microenvironment, cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix interactions. There is a clear need for advanced cell culture systems which mimic in vivo and more physiological conditions. This review summarises and analyses recent progress in three dimensional (3D) cell culture with perfusion as the next generation cell culture tools, while excluding engineered tissue culture where three dimensional scaffold has to be used for structural support and perfusion for overcoming mass transfer control. Apart from research activities in academic community, product development in industry is also included in this review.

Keywords: Extracellular matrix; Perfusion culture; Physiological microenvironment; Scaffolds; Three-dimensional cell culture; Tissue engineering.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cell Culture Techniques*
  • Cells, Cultured
  • Extracellular Matrix
  • Humans
  • Perfusion*
  • Tissue Engineering*
  • Tissue Scaffolds