Cell culture models for SARS-CoV-2 infectivity and systemic complications

Abstract

COVID-19 was declared by WHO as a pandemic since March 2020. The vaccination program has been implemented worldwide. Specific antiviral drugs such as remdesivir, molnupiravir and ritonavir-based nirmatrelvir were effective against SARS-CoV-2 infection. However, the new SARS-CoV-2 variants have been elevated due to viral mutation causing vaccine resistance and rapid spreading. Long-term COVID-19 complications have been lifethreatening in some recovery cases. To overcome viral adaptation, cell culture model is essential to comprehend SARS-CoV-2 infection, pathophysiology, complications, and drug target alterations. The classical 2D culture cell was frequency used for viral propagation and high-throughput screening. Modern 3D culture has recapitulated key cellular and molecular events of tissue physiology. Here, we reviewed the cell lines, 3D culture, organoid and relevant models for the aforementioned applications.