Title:Bioengineered 3D Scaffolds in Cancer Research: Focus on Epithelial to Mesenchymal Transition and Drug Screening
Volume: 23
Issue: 11
Author(s): Xiaoli Xu and LiLing Tang*
Affiliation:
- Key Laboratory of Biorheological Science and Technology, Ministry of Education, Faculty of Bioengineering, Chongqing University, P.O.Box: 400044, Chongqing,China
Keywords:
Cancer cell, microenvironment, 3D scaffolds, biological behavior, EMT, drug screening.
Abstract: Background: The living environment of cancer cells is complicated and information-rich. Thus, traditional
2D culture mold in vitro cannot mimic the microenvironment of cancer cells exactly. Currently, bioengineered
3D scaffolds have been developed which can better simulate the microenvironment of tumors and fill the
gap between 2D culture and clinical application.
Conclusion: In this review, we discuss the scaffold materials used for fabrication techniques, biological behaviors
of cancer cells in 3D scaffolds and the scaffold-based drug screening. A major emphasis is placed on the description
of scaffold-based epithelial to mesenchymal transition and drug screening in 3D culture. By overcoming the
defects of traditional 2D culture, 3D scaffolds culture can provide a simpler, safer and more reliable approach for
cancer research.
