The Use of 3D Models to Test Potential Anti-SARS-CoV-2 Drugs and Infection Mechanisms

Abstract

After more than a year of the pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2, the development of vaccines reduced the impacts of COVID-19. However, the disease continues to affect millions of people worldwide, and the development of antivirals and effective treatments remains a challenge. We recently reviewed the strategies of the tissue engineering field in providing three-dimensional (3D) cell culture models suitable to study antiviral candidates to treat COVID-19, such as spheroids, organoids, and the use of 3D bioprinting technology. These models represent an advance over conventional monolayer cultures by providing more complex structures that better resemble native tissue, improving the prediction of results. Bioengineered organs could potentially contribute to our understanding of the infection mechanisms and help the research community to overcome the challenges of developing effective treatments against COVID-19.