New Review Published Highlights 3D Models as the Future of Oncology Drug Testing

Victoria, September 2023—We’re proud to announce the publication of a collaborative research article titled "Preclinical Testing Techniques: Paving the Way for New Oncology Screening Approaches" in Cancers (MDPI).

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This review examines the limitations of traditional preclinical testing methods, such as 2D cell cultures and animal models. It highlights the urgent need for more predictive, human-relevant platforms in oncology research. Despite billions invested, oncology drug candidates entering clinical trials continue to face a staggering failure rate, largely due to the poor translational value of current in vitro and in vivo systems.

Recent 3D bioprinted cancer models for preclinical testing using (A–C) breast cancer and osteoblast co-culture [162] and (D–F) prostate cancer and fibroblast co-culture [163]. (A) Schematic diagram of light-activated 3D bioprinting process using cell-laden osteoblast scaffolding seeded with breast cancer cells to model breast cancer metastasis. (B) Confocal images of osteoblasts and breast cancer cells in co-culture after 1, 3, and 5 days. (C) Proliferation of breast cancer cells when cultured in mono-culture versus metastatic co-culture model with osteoblasts. (D) Schematic diagram of 3D bioprinting extrusion process for prostate and fibroblast co-culture model. (E) Extrusion printing of complex structures for prostate–fibroblast model. (F) DTX drug resistance of PC-3 (prostate cancer) cells in co-culture model. indicates p < 0.05 and * indicates p < 0.01. (A–C) Reprinted (adapted) with permission from [162]. Copyright 2016 American Chemical Society. (D,E) Reprinted under terms of the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License accessed on 24 August 2023 from https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/ [163].

The article highlights the advantages of 3D cell culture models, including spheroids, organoids, organs-on-a-chip, and 3D bioprinted tissues, which better replicate the human tumor microenvironment through more realistic drug diffusion, cell–cell signaling, and vascularization.

As stated in the publication, the FDA Modernization Act 2.0 marks a critical regulatory shift, recognizing the potential of complex in vitro models and promoting their use as viable alternatives to animal testing. With this momentum, 3D tissue engineering platforms, such as those developed by VoxCell, are poised to become central tools in advancing faster, safer, and more effective cancer treatments.

About VoxCell BioInnovation

VoxCell BioInnovation is a leading provider of next-generation in vitro models, powered by our 3D bioprinted, vascularized tissue technology. Our ready-to-perfuse models closely replicate human biology with in vivo–like microvascular networks, enabling nutrient and oxygen delivery, systemic drug distribution, and more predictive therapeutic responses. VoxCell’s end-to-end solution offers researchers and pharmaceutical companies a scalable, ethical alternative to animal testing. Our mission is to reduce reliance on animal models, accelerate preclinical development, and advance more effective therapies for patients.

Want to learn more or collaborate?

Visit our website, connect with us on LinkedIn, or email us at hello@voxcellbio.com.