Work

Development of a 3D-bioprinted tumour-on-chip with tunable hydrogel properties for monitoring colorectal cancer cell migration and invasion

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Understanding the mechanisms governing cancer cell migration is essential for elucidating the early events of colorectal cancer metastasis. Here, we report the development of a light-tunable three-dimensional (3D) bioprinted tumour-on-chip platform for monitoring the migration of colorectal cancer cells under biomimetic microenvironmental conditions. The platform integrates digital light processing (DLP)-based 3D bioprinting with microfluidic technology to recreate structural and mechanical features of the colorectal tumour microenvironment. A hybrid bioink composed of gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA), Matrigel, and type I collagen was formulated to balance DLP printability with biologically relevant extracellular matrix components. Multi-compartment tumour constructs were fabricated with HCT116 colorectal cancer cells spatially confined within a central tumour region, while human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) were incorporated into surrounding compartments under co-culture conditions. By modulating the projected light intensity, constructs with tunable properties were generated to investigate the influence of matrix mechanics and transport on cancer cell behaviour. Comparison of Day 1 and Day 4 fluorescence images revealed outward redistribution of the HCT116-positive signal beyond the initially printed tumour core, consistent with colorectal cancer cell migration. The extent of this redistribution was influenced by the light-defined matrix properties and the presence of the neighbouring HUVEC-containing co-culture compartment, highlighting the combined role of physicochemical and cellular cues in regulating tumour cell behaviour. The system also establishes a foundation for future studies of tumour invasion, endothelial barrier interactions, and therapeutic screening under controlled perfusion conditions, supporting the advancement of personalized cancer models and anti-metastatic drug development.

Source: Materials Today Bio

DOI: 10.1016/j.mtbio.2026.103646

Authors: Adrian García, Lia Jove, María Pereira, Angelica Figueroa, Daniel Nieto

Institutions: Universidade da Coruña, Complexo Hospitalario Universitario A Coruña, Instituto de Investigación Biomédica de A Coruña, Axencia Galega de Innovacion

Language: English

Topic: 3D Printing in Biomedical Research

Subfield: Biomedical Engineering

Field: Engineering

Domain: Physical Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $3,400