Integrating Bioprinting and Increased Throughput : Next-Generation Models for Cardiac Research

Over the past two decades, three-dimensional cell culture (3DCC) and bioprinting (3DBP) technology have been at the forefront of developing engineered human cardiac tissue. Compared to 2D culture systems, 3DCC-based models more accurately replicate key characteristics of living tissues such as diffusion dynamics, interactions between cells and the extracellular matrix, as well as the presence of supporting stromal components. The rise of new 3DBP techniques serves to facilitate the robust and rapid generation of 3D tissue alongside real-time assessment of their characteristics. In order to capitalize on their translational potential, high-throughput screening (HTS) is required as research draws nearer to replicating clinical trials with cardiovascular-bioprinted tissues, and testing for the safety and efficacy of novel therapeutics. In this review, we summarize trending cardiac tissue models, as well as the state of their related or integrated HTS process and development. With an emphasis on the need for scale-up, compatibility, and standardization in HTS, the coalescence of 3DBP models and screening can provide improved disease modeling, drug efficacy, and toxicity testing.