Precision Spatial Control of Tumor-Stroma Interactions in Cancer Models via 3D Bioprinting for Advanced Research and Therapy

Abstract

As an emerging technology for modeling cancer tissue in vitro, 3D bioprinting facilitates precise spatial manipulation of cells and biomaterials, allowing for the replication of complex 3D tissue architectures and the accurate recapitulation of tumor microenvironment (TME) features. This review initially elucidates the mechanisms underlying tumorigenesis and associated the TME complexity, with a particular focus on the roles of stromal cell populations and the characteristics of the extracellular matrix (ECM) in tumor progression. Moreover, this work summarizes the recent advances in 3D bioprinted cancer models, emphasizing their application in studying cell-ECM interactions, stromal-tumor cell crosstalk, and vasculature formation for investigating cancer occurrence and metastasis, as well as their utility in high-throughput drug screening and therapeutic development. Finally, this work discusses the advantages and challenges of 3D bioprinting technology in creating biomimetic cancer models, while providing insights into future development trajectories and potential translational applications in cancer research and personalized medicine. By focusing on these critical dimensions, this review aims to highlight the transformative role of 3D bioprinting in advancing in vitro cancer models with the ultimate goal of improving cancer treatment, prevention, and patient outcomes.