Advancing Research on Rare Cancers Through 3D Bioprinting

Abstract

Rare cancers are a diverse group of malignancies with low incidence, posing significant challenges for research due to the scarcity of cases and the lack of well-established in vitro and in vivo models. In this letter, we describe how 3D bioprinting can address these challenges by enabling the construction of more accurate tumor models that capture the essential characteristics and heterogeneity of rare cancers. The technology allows for the creation of multicellular microenvironments, the incorporation of diverse extracellular matrix substrates, and the deployment of additional components like growth factors, nanoparticles, and genetic modulators. This versatility facilitates the study of complex tumor behaviors, such as perineural invasion, and enables high-throughput drug screening for personalized therapies. We emphasize the transformative potential of 3D bioprinting in advancing rare cancer research and overcoming the longstanding challenges associated with these malignancies, with a particular focus on salivary gland cancers.