Chapter 15. 3D Tissue Models for Toxicology

Abstract

In chemical development, a product's potential toxic effects on life must be analysed before it can be used. This study of toxicology often utilises in vitro and in vivo models, but both have significant drawbacks. Current in vitro models are often simplistic and two-dimensional (2D), whereas in vivo models pose economic and ethical concerns. The burgeoning field of biofabrication has allowed production of more physiological relevant, three-dimensional (3D) in vitro models, which can reduce the use of animal models. This chapter will detail the various tissues that have been modelled in 3D for toxicology research using biofabrication, and their benefits over current 2D in vitro models.