Comparedto traditional cell-based assay monolayers, three-dimensional (3D) models more closely mimic native tissues. 3D tissue models provide a means for systematic, repetitive, and quantitative investigation of drugs, serving as platforms for screening of drugs as well as pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic analysis of drugs. That said, creating the more biologically relevant third dimension of tissue models requires a multidisciplinary approach and multidisciplinary expertise. Cambridge Healthtech Institute’s Predictive Functional Human Tissue Models: Moving into the Third Dimension of Drug Discovery and Development weaves together engineers, biologists, and pharmacologists. As with any 3D model, each specialty provides insights into the complete system advancing drug discovery and development, from designing the bioreactors, developing the 3D models, studying healthy versus diseased states, to utilizing drug screening assays.

Sessions:

• Moving into the Third Dimension
• Surrogate Model Systems: How Complex Do They Need to Be?
• Tissue Models for Drug Discovery & Development: Ready for Prime Time?

Pre-Conference Short Course:
Scaffolds: Bridging the Gap between 2D and 3D 
Click here for short course details.

Scientific Advisory Committee:

Linda Griffith, Ph.D., Professor, Biological and Mechanical Engineering, MIT
Jonathan Garlick, Ph.D., Director, Cancer Biology and Tissue Engineering, Sackler School of Graduate Biomedical Sciences, Tufts University School of Medicine
Rosemarie Hunziker, Ph.D., Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine Program Director, National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering, National Institutes of Health