3D-Printed Degradable Anti-Tumor Scaffolds for Controllable Drug Delivery

In this study, porous polylactic acid/methotrexate (PLA/MTX) scaffolds were successfully fabricated by three-dimensional (3D) printing technology as controllable drug delivery devices to suppress tumor growth. Scanning electron microscopy and energy-dispersive spectrometer confirmed that MTX drug was successfully incorporated into the PLA filament. 3D-printed PLA/MTX scaffolds allow sustained release of drug molecules in vitro for more than 30 days, reducing systemic toxic side effects caused by injection or oral administration. In vitro cytotoxicity assay revealed that PLA/MTX scaffolds have a relatively high inhibitory effect on the tumor cells (MG-63, A549, MCF-7, and 4T1) and relatively low toxic effect on the normal MC3T3-E1 cells. Furthermore, results of in vivo experiments confirmed that PLA/MTX scaffolds highly suppressed tumor growth and no obvious side effects on the organs. All these results suggested that 3D-printed PLA/MTX scaffolds could be used as controllable drug delivery systems for tumor suppression.