Image courtesy of IOP @PhysicsNews
A 3-D model of a cancerous tumor using a 3-D printer has been successfully created by a group of researchers in China and the US. The model consists of a grid structure, 10 mm in width and length, made from gelatin, alginate and fibrin, which recreates the fibrous proteins that make up the extracellular matrix of a tumor. ” With further understanding of these 3D models, we can use them to study the development, invasion, metastasis and treatment of cancer using specific cancer cells from patients. We can also use these models to test the efficacy and safety of new cancer treatment therapies and new cancer drugs.” Professor Wei Sun, from Tsinghua University, China, and Drexel University, USA, the lead author of the research stated.
Sources:
- Press release: 3D printing cancer cells to mimic tumours
Institute of Physics, IOP News 11 April 2014. - Study: Three-dimensional printing of Hela cells for cervical tumor model in vitro
IOP Science, doi:10.1088/1758-5082/6/3/035001 11 April 2014.