Advancements in 3D Gel Culture Systems for Enhanced Angiogenesis in Bone Tissue Engineering

Abstract

Angiogenesis-osteogenesis coupling is a crucial process in bone tissue engineering, requiring a suitable material structure for vessels growth. Recently, the 3D culture system has gained significant attention due to its benefits in cell growth, proliferation, and tissue regeneration. Its most notable advantage is its ECM-like function, which supports endothelial cells adhesion, and facilitates the formation of vascular-like networks—crucial for angiogenesis-osteogenesis coupling. Hydrogels, with their highly hydrophilic polymer network resembling the extracellular matrix, make the 3D gel culture system an ideal protocol for angiogenesis due to its cellular integrity and adjustable properties. This article reviews the current use of 3D gel culture systems in bone tissue engineering, covering substrates, characteristics, and processing technologies, thereby offering readers profound insights into these systems.