Most new drugs never make it to market — but what if the problem is how we test them? Currently, many new medicines are first tested using 2D cell cultures — flat sheets of cells grown in petri dishes. But the human body is made of 3D tissues and organs, not flat layers. This mismatch often leads to misleading results and failed clinical trials. That is why Anubhav Bussooa (VUB) is developing 3D cell models that replicate the structure and complexity of real human tissues more closely. These tiny spheres even form root-like networks (inspired by how plants absorb nutrients) to help oxygen and nutrients reach every layer. Anubhav's research could improve drug testing, reduce failure rates, and accelerate the development of more effective and reliable treatments.
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