Enhanced Biomimetics of Three-Dimensional Osteosarcoma Models: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Oncology
• Materials Science

Background:

• Osteosarcoma (OS) is a primary bone cancer with poor prognosis.
• Current 2D cell culture models fail to accurately represent the complex tumor microenvironment (TME).
• Three-dimensional (3D) models offer improved biomimicry for studying OS biology and drug response.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the biomimicry of existing 3D osteosarcoma models.
• To assess the drug sensitivity of OS cells within these 3D models.
• To identify gaps and future directions for developing more predictive OS models.

Main Methods:

• A systematic scoping review adhering to PRISMA-ScR guidelines.
• Analysis of 70 selected studies from an initial search of 293.
• Evaluation of model types (scaffold-based vs. scaffold-free) and biomaterials used.

Main Results:

• Most 3D OS models (64%) were scaffold-based, often using collagen I/hydroxyapatite.
• Cancer cell sensitivity in 3D models was significantly lower (~90% of studies) than in 2D, linked to drug resistance.
• 3D models with stromal cells promoted tumor progression markers and showed potential for testing selective drug toxicity.

Conclusions:

• Existing 3D osteosarcoma models require enhanced biomimicry to better recapitulate the TME.
• Improved 3D models are essential for accurate drug screening and development of novel therapeutics.
• Future research should focus on advanced biomaterials and personalized medicine approaches using 3D models.