Leveraging 3D cell culture and AI technologies for next-generation drug discovery

Abstract

The introduction of three-dimensional (3D) cell-culture models was a defining step in revolutionizing drug development with more advanced alternatives in comparison with the standard two-dimensional (2D) monolayer cultures. When compared with the 2D models, which do not assist with the complicated cellular microenvironments of real tissue, the 3D cell cultures are a more physiologically relevant option and also allow for a much more precise prediction of pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics. This new technology tackles some of the highlighted limitations that exist with 2D cultures. This pertains to defective cell-cell and cell-extracellular matrix (ECM) interactions, which are important in the maintenance of cellular homeostasis, differentiation, and tissue-specific function. The 3D models therefore put forward a better, more reliable output in terms of the screening of candidate compounds by providing the computative layout of tissue structure in vivo and metabolic gradients. This reduces attrition rates during the drug development procedure. Furthermore, 3D cell models have shown a high potential for application in precision medicine that enables patient-specific drug testing and personalized therapeutic regimens. This perspective emphasizes the transformative potential of 3D cell-culture methods, and these technologies have major implications for enhancing the accuracy in prediction and efficiency in the process of drug discovery, which are critical. Besides, they are also very instrumental in the boosting of biomedical research. Another vital area of research is therapeutic innovation, and such breakthroughs make an immense contribution to therapeutic innovation.