A Brief Review on Using Cryogenic Scaffold Structures for Better Mimicry of the Breast Cancer Tumor Microenvironment
摘要
Understanding cancer development and treatment relies heavily on experimental models, particularly two-dimensional (2D) cell culture systems and three-dimensional (3D) animal models. While 2D systems are widely used due to their simplicity and cost-effectiveness, they fall short in replicating the complexity of real tissues, primarily because they lack the structural and biochemical cues present in the tumor microenvironment. In contrast, 3D systems, such as animal models, allow researchers to study tumor growth and metastasis in a more physiologically relevant context. However, these models are subject to ethical constraints, high costs, and limited scalability. To overcome the limitations of both 2D and animal-based 3D models, a new interdisciplinary field has emerged: the development of in vitro tumor models through tissue engineering. This approach aims to construct biologically relevant artificial tumor environments in the laboratory using biomaterials, particularly for preclinical drug testing. Researchers in this field are focused on developing 3D cancer models that closely mimic in vivo conditions, offering more accurate predictions of drug efficacy and toxicity. Currently, a significant portion of this research is centered around breast cancer, one of the most prevalent cancers affecting women globally. The ultimate goal is to fabricate 3D disease models by designing scaffolds made from polymers and bioactive compounds that can simulate the tumor microenvironment more effectively. In this context, the present review highlights the potential use of cryogels—3D tissue scaffolding systems—in breast cancer research. It also discusses recent strategies and advancements in their application within the field of cancer biology and drug development studies.