Three-Dimensional Printing for Cancer Applications: Research Landscape and Technologies

Area of Science:

• Oncology and Biomedical Engineering
• Additive Manufacturing in Healthcare

Background:

• Novel technologies like 3D printing are increasingly integrated into healthcare.
• 3D printing offers rapid prototyping capabilities crucial for medical advancements.
• Its application in cancer treatment spans research, drug discovery, and clinical use.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current applications of 3D printing in cancer research and treatment.
• To explore the potential of 3D printing in accelerating oncology drug discovery and development.
• To discuss challenges and future prospects of 3D printing in cancer care.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of up-to-date applications of 3D printing in oncology.
• Analysis of 3D printing's role in fundamental research, drug discovery, and development.
• Examination of clinical applications including pharmaceuticals, bioprinted models, and medical devices.

Main Results:

• 3D printing facilitates the creation of anticancer pharmaceuticals with tailored release profiles.
• 3D-bioprinted cancer cell models offer advanced platforms for preclinical research.
• Customized nonbiological medical devices are being developed using 3D printing for patient-specific needs.

Conclusions:

• 3D printing significantly impacts cancer research and treatment by enabling innovation.
• The technology has the potential to revolutionize drug discovery and development pipelines.
• Addressing current challenges will further unlock the future of 3D-printed medical applications in oncology.