Recent Applications of Tissue-Engineered 3D Scaffolds in Oncology: Present and Future Perspectives

Three-dimensional (3D) scaffolds are essential in tissue engineering, providing optimal conditions for cellular proliferation, tissue repair, and regeneration. In oncology, these structures are crucial for correctly reproducing the in vivo milieu and effectively modelling the tumor microenvironment (TME). Recent advancements indicate that 3D scaffolds are very effective in preserving cell viability, improving connections between tumors and stroma, and properly replicating cellular communication. Developing sophisticated three-dimensional (3D) cell culture methods that accurately emulate the tumor microenvironment (TME) is essential, given the inherent constraints of traditional two-dimensional (2D) cultures and animal models. These advanced 3D in vitro cancer models provide significant advantages for diagnostic and therapeutic applications, improving our understanding of cancer development and therapy. This article examines the latest advancements in three-dimensional tissue scaffolds for cancer therapy. It discusses the potential impact of such shifts on the field and the types of cancer research and treatments that will be feasible in the future.