Application of complex in vitro models (CIVMs) in drug discovery for safety testing and disease modeling

Abstract The proliferation of novel in vitro technologies in the last decade provokes a recurring question as to which cell culture models are most suitable for fundamental research and drug discovery programs. To address this question, a methodical approach that takes into account the rigour and reproducibility of complex in vitro model features as these relate to normal tissue physiology or disease state should be adopted. In this chapter, some emerging single and multiorgan complex in vitro models in the areas of liver, skin, and oncology are described and critically reviewed from an end-user perspective. In addition, suggestions for a systematic approach in the evaluation of new complex in vitro models are provided, based on the experience of scientists working in pharmaceutical R&D.