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Advancing Research on Rare Cancers Through 3D Bioprinting
Juliana Amorim Dos Santos1,2, Eliete Neves Silva Guerra2, Cristiane H Squarize1,3
1Laboratory of Epithelial Biology, School of Dentistry, Department of Periodontics and Oral Medicine, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, USA.
Summary
Three-dimensional (3D) bioprinting offers a novel solution for rare cancer research by creating accurate tumor models. This technology aids in studying complex cancer behaviors and developing personalized therapies for rare malignancies.
Area of Science:
- Biotechnology
- Oncology
- Regenerative Medicine
Background:
- Rare cancers present research challenges due to low incidence and limited models.
- Developing accurate in vitro and in vivo models is crucial for understanding rare cancer biology.
- Existing models often fail to capture the heterogeneity and complexity of rare tumors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the application of 3D bioprinting for creating advanced rare cancer models.
- To demonstrate how 3D bioprinting can overcome limitations in current rare cancer research.
- To highlight the potential of 3D bioprinting in studying specific rare cancer characteristics, such as salivary gland cancers.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing 3D bioprinting to construct multicellular tumor microenvironments.
- Incorporating diverse extracellular matrix substrates and bioactive components (growth factors, nanoparticles).
- Developing models capable of recapitulating complex tumor behaviors like perineural invasion.
Main Results:
- 3D bioprinting enables the creation of highly accurate and heterogeneous rare cancer models.
- The technology facilitates the study of complex tumor invasion and progression.
- Bioprinted models are suitable for high-throughput drug screening and personalized therapy development.
Conclusions:
- 3D bioprinting is a transformative technology for advancing rare cancer research.
- This approach addresses critical challenges posed by the scarcity of cases and inadequate models.
- 3D bioprinting holds significant promise for improving therapeutic strategies for rare cancers, including salivary gland cancers.
