Functional biomaterials for biomimetic 3D in vitro tumor microenvironment modeling

Abstract

The translational potential of promising anticancer medications and treatments may be enhanced by the creation of 3D in vitro models that can accurately reproduce native tumor microenvironments. Tumor microenvironments for cancer treatment and research can be built in vitro using biomaterials. Three-dimensional in vitro cancer models have provided new insights into the biology of cancer. Cancer researchers are creating artificial three-dimensional tumor models based on functional biomaterials that mimic the microenvironment of the real tumor. Our understanding of tumor stroma activity over the course of cancer has improved because of the use of scaffold and matrix-based three-dimensional systems intended for regenerative medicine. Scientists have created synthetic tumor models thanks to recent developments in materials engineering. These models enable researchers to investigate the biology of cancer and assess the therapeutic effectiveness of available medications. The emergence of biomaterial engineering technologies with the potential to hasten treatment outcomes is highlighted in this review, which also discusses the influence of creating in vitro biomimetic 3D tumor microenvironments utilizing functional biomaterials. Future cancer treatments will rely much more heavily on biomaterials engineering.

Higher‐Order Behaviours in Bio‐Inspired Materials

“…Furthermore, integrated hydrogels with hierarchical architecture and mechanical properties closely similar to the in vivo ECM have been highlighted as suitable scaffolds for patient‐derived tumour organoid growth [19] . These results highlight the importance of self‐assembled hydrogel networks with integrated nano‐structures and showcase the potential applications of these bioinspired materials in regenerative medicine, such as preclinical in vitro models for testing cancer treatments [19–20] or photothermal therapy for antibacterial treatments [21]…”

3D Printing for Cancer Diagnosis: What Unique Advantages Are Gained?

“…136 These models can be used to simulate and study cancer growth, enabling researchers to better understand tumor characteristics and develop more precise diagnostic methods. 137 Surgeons can also use these models to plan complex surgeries, improving the accuracy of tumor removal. 138 Cell-culture models have evolved from simple 2D to complex 3D bioprinted models.…”

“…3D printing can create highly accurate and personalized tissue and organ models that closely mimic human anatomy . These models can be used to simulate and study cancer growth, enabling researchers to better understand tumor characteristics and develop more precise diagnostic methods . Surgeons can also use these models to plan complex surgeries, improving the accuracy of tumor removal …”

Thymol as a Component of Chitosan Systems—Several New Applications in Medicine: A Comprehensive Review

“…Functional biomaterials (FBs) are designed to exhibit specific properties [1]. Owing to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and hydrophilicity, they are used in many areas of life, as well as in medicine for therapeutic applications [2][3][4][5][6]. They can be of natural origin, synthetic, or composite forms [7,8].…”