Title : Advancing tissue engineering: 3D endothelial culture models as ethical and translational alternatives to animal testing
Abstract:
The development of three-dimensional (3D) culture systems has transformed tissue engineering by offering more physiologically relevant models compared to traditional two-dimensional (2D) cultures. Beyond their scientific contribution, 3D models represent an ethical and innovative alternative to animal experimentation, aligning with the 3Rs principle (Replacement, Reduction, Refinement).
In this presentation, we highlight the optimization of a 3D endothelial culture system based on human coronary artery endothelial cells (HCAECs) grown on type I collagen scaffolds. This model reproduces essential structural and functional properties of the vascular endothelium, enabling the study of host–pathogen interactions, inflammatory signaling, and endothelial dysfunction. Using Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans as a case study, the model demonstrated increased adhesion and migration of monocytes, along with significant upregulation of MCP-1, IL-6, IL-8, and TGF-β1, key mediators of pro-atherogenic processes.
The findings support 3D tissue-engineered platforms as powerful tools for understanding complex pathophysiological mechanisms without resorting to animal testing. Moreover, these models provide a translational bridge between basic research and clinical applications, contributing to the development of safer therapeutic strategies.
By integrating tissue engineering with microbiology and cardiovascular biology, this work emphasizes not only the scientific robustness but also the societal impact of 3D culture systems as next-generation alternatives to animal experimentation. This perspective strengthens the role of bioengineering in advancing biomedical research, regenerative medicine, and ethical innovation.
Keywords: Tissue engineering, 3D culture, endothelial dysfunction, animal-free models, translational research.
