Biocompatible extracellular matrices for cell cultures

2D cultures fail to reproduce human tissues

Two-dimensional cell cultures on rigid substrates fail to faithfully reproduce the spatial organization, cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions, or the physiopathological complexity of human tissues.

• •non-physiological environment → stiffness and planarity alter cellular behavior (mechanotransduction)
• •loss of original functions and phenotype
• •absence of three-dimensional structure and realistic interactions
• •unrealistic distribution of nutrients and drugs
• •poor predictive value in pharmacological testing
• •altered cell polarity
• •simplified interactions with the extracellular matrix

Animal models have structural limits

In-vivo studies face stringent international regulatory restrictions, raise ethical concerns, carry high costs and offer limited translational value.

Limits of the current animal-derived standard

The most widely used hydrogels, animal-derived, can show high inter-batch variability, limited clinical translatability, and do not allow non-destructive recovery of cultured cells.

• •biological variability → composition not always uniform across batches
• •immunogenic risk → can trigger immune system responses
• •potential pathogen transmission → if not adequately purified
• •poor control over mechanical and degradation properties
• •limited stability → rapid degradation under physiological conditions
• •ethical concerns tied to animal origin
• •dependence on non-sustainable sources