3D Liver Fibrosis Models in Lab: A Novel Modality for Drug Screening Publisher Pubmed



Alikhani H K ; Majidi F ; Ghasemzad M ; Shpichka A ; Nestorova A ; Hendi Z ; Rismani E ; Kuznetsova D ; Timashev P ; Vosough M ; Piryaei A
Source: Pharmacology Research and Perspectives Published:2026

Abstract

Liver fibrosis is the common consequence of liver injury caused by a variety of chronic liver disorders. This condition leads to the development of more severe complications, particularly cirrhosis and hepatocellular carcinoma. Despite abundant studies, the fundamental cell and molecular mechanisms of liver fibrosis are still unknown. There are many key players involved in the initiation and progression of liver fibrosis. Thus, the specific type of underlying disease and the study's objectives should be considered while choosing suitable models for liver fibrosis. Numerous in vitro and in vivo models have been generated to investigate liver fibrosis and proposed for drug screening and toxicology; however, there are no ideal in vitro models for drug discovery yet. In this review, we introduced the available in vitro models and highlighted certain platforms such as organoids and liver-on-a-chip for investigating liver fibrosis. Furthermore, we discussed the current challenges and potential application of each model. © 2026 The Author(s). Pharmacology Research & Perspectives published by British Pharmacological Society and John Wiley & Sons Ltd.