Modeling Proliferative Versus Migratory Melanoma Cell Phenotypes Using Biofabricated Matrices

Biofabrication enables the controlled generation of three-dimensional cell cultures that can be highly useful to study different cellular phenotypes. As melanoma cells reveal high plasticity, and the "phenotype switching model" defining the cells as either proliferative or migratory active has been described, we recently developed a 3D bioprinted model mimicking these phenotypes. Here, we describe the generation of these bioprinted models based on either Matrigel or Cellink Bioink, which can be used with various cell lines and which allows for the analysis of cell response on microscopic and molecular levels. This model system offers novel opportunities for fundamental research and drug testing on heterogeneous tumors like melanoma.