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. Author manuscript; available in PMC: 2021 Jul 1.
Published in final edited form as: Ann Biomed Eng. 2020 Apr 13;48(7):2002–2027. doi: 10.1007/s10439-020-02498-w

Figure 2. Technologies to support in vitro 3D culture models.

Figure 2.

PSCs can be used to generate a range of different 3D culture models by combining differentiation protocols with technologies to support cell growth under 3D conditions. The simplest method involves culturing differentiated cells under suspension conditions to form spheroids. Organoids are generated by embedding differentiated cells in an extracellular matrix such as Matrigel. Bioreactors are used to scale up organoid and spheroid cultures and to allow for long-term growth of these tissues due to increased circulation of nutrients and waste products. Organ-on-a-chip systems make use of microfabricated devices with micrometer-sized chambers and continuous perfusion of culture medium. Multiple chips can be linked fluidically to join several organ models and recapitulate in vivo physiology.