Revolutionizing Cancer Treatment with 3D Bioprinting: A New Era of Personalization

In a groundbreaking development, scientists have harnessed the potential of 3D bioprinting technology to create a personalized model for gastric cancer treatment. This innovative approach, led by Professor Jinah Jang from POSTECH and Professor Charles Lee from The Jackson Laboratory, utilizes patient-derived cancer tissue fragments to faithfully replicate the characteristics of individual patient tissues. Published in the journal Advanced Science, this research paves the way for more rapid and accurate evaluation of patient-specific drug responses.

One of the major challenges in cancer treatment is tumor heterogeneity, which leads to variable drug responses among patients. Current methodologies, such as gene panel-based tests and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models, often fall short due to limitations in applicability, prediction accuracy, and time efficiency. Addressing these issues, the new model employs 3D bioprinting along with a stomach-derived decellularized extracellular matrix (dECM) hydrogel. This unique combination allows for realistic cell-matrix and cell-stroma interactions, mimicking the tumor’s natural environment closely and preserving the genetic and physiological profiles of the cancer tissues.

This 3D bioprinting model is particularly noteworthy for its ability to predict patient-specific drug responses within two weeks of extracting tumor tissue. It demonstrates enhanced specificity in replicating the tumor microenvironment, with gene expression profiles that align closely with those of the patient’s original cancer tissue, outperforming conventional models. Professor Charles Lee highlights the model’s potential to improve drug response predictions, optimizing treatment plans by eliminating unnecessary drugs for patients who are unlikely to respond. Meanwhile, Professor Jinah Jang underscores the importance of this model as a crucial preclinical tool, not only in personalizing cancer therapy but also in testing new anticancer drugs and combination therapies.

In conclusion, the use of 3D bioprinting in cancer treatment marks a significant advance in personalized medicine. By offering a rapid and precise evaluation platform, it promises enhanced treatment efficacy and improved patient outcomes, ensuring therapies are tailored to the unique characteristics of each patient’s cancer. As this technology continues to evolve, it could revolutionize cancer treatment approaches, reducing side effects and increasing the success rate of therapies.