Three-dimensional cell culture

Complex cell models probed in high-throughput screening 

Nuvisan excels in advanced 3D cell culture-based high-content assays, accurately simulating tissue and disease physiology. Our 3D co-cultures serve as phenotypic screening systems for tumor invasion processes. We are one of the few labs worldwide capable of measuring, analysing and quantifying these processes in high-throughput models to test anti-invasive agents in vitro. Our screening facility can evaluate up to 400k compounds, enabling precise and relevant insights for our clients, including multiplexed, high-throughput screening (HTS)-compatible evaluation of cell-tissue interactions.

Organoids

Organoids have the potential to revolutionise drug discovery by providing accurate, three-dimensional models of human tissues and organs. These miniaturised, lab-grown structures replicate the complexity and functionality of real organs. Combined with multiplexing and high-throughput screening, HCA allows for comprehensive evaluation of organoid biology, such as brain and kidney organoids. This enables the study of disease mechanisms, drug responses and cell behavior in a more physiological context. Our use of this innovative technology delivers precise, predictive insights, enhancing drug discovery and development for our clients.

3D tumor spheroids

Our experts leverage 3D tumor spheroids in HCA to accurately mimic tumor architecture and microenvironment. This multiplexed, HTS-compatible approach allows for predictive in vitro evaluation of compound efficacy in oncology, offering deeper insights into cell behavior and drug response for our clients. Two examples of our team´s contribution to advance 3D tumor spheroid research:

• Hypoxia: Our scientists have used 3D tumor spheroids under hypoxic conditions to identify compounds that induce cancer cell death by inhibiting acid sphingomyelinase and overactivating hypoxia stress-response pathways, specifically targeting hypoxic tumor regions.
• MISpheroID: We have contributed to the MISpheroID Consortium, which developed a knowledgebase of 3,058 spheroid experiments, identifying methodological inconsistencies and establishing standardised guidelines to improve transparency and reproducibility in spheroid research.