FIGURE 3.

Techniques to create 3D in vitro cancer models using scaffolds. Addition of extracellular matrix (ECM) as scaffolds for 3D cell cultures enables both cell-cell and cell-ECM interactions for a more physiologically relevant 3D cancer cell model. Methods include (A) ECM/hydrogels with cancer cells i) on top of, or ii) encapsulated within an ECM, iii) organotypic omental co-culture model and iv) organoid propagation. (B) 3D bioprinting techniques such as i) extrusion-based bioprinting enables creation of 3D cell-laden models in hydrogels in a layer-by-layer manner, and ii) droplet-based bioprinting enabling high-throughput creation of 3D cell models in hydrogels with higher spatial control for more complex co-culture. (C) Tumor-on-a-chip microfluidic devices have been used to model the effects of fluid shear stress, as well as simulating nutrient, gas and drug gradients, for ascites metastasis modelling. Created with Biorender.com.