Vascularised 3D models for lung cancer

The PULMO3D project aims to develop a three-dimensional vascularised lung model that can simulate the administration of drugs through the bloodstream to lung tumours. To do this, a hyaluronic acid-based hydrogel developed by IIS Biogipuzkoa will be used, enriched with type I collagen and fibrin to promote cell proliferation and angiogenesis. A tubular structure simulating blood vessels will be printed inside it using a CIC BiomaGUNE 3D printer, using bio-inks with human endothelial cells (HUVEC). The design of the printing trajectory for manufacturing will be generated by CAD-CAM software developed by Vicomtech. Tumour cell spheroids will be incorporated, starting with the A549 line to validate their viability in the hydrogel, and subsequently cells derived from biopsies of healthy and tumour tissue will be used to create customised models. The co-culture of tumour and healthy spheroids will be evaluated to simulate real clinical conditions. The spheroids will be positioned close to the endothelium, promoting vascularisation without initial direct contact, which prevents the formation of dysfunctional vessels. This model more accurately represents lung adenocarcinoma compared to 2D cultures or isolated spheroids, as it incorporates extracellular matrix and vascularisation. 

 In addition, it allows drug screening in a more realistic environment, reducing costs and the use of animal models. The impact of the mechanical properties of the hydrogel and the geometry of the vasculature on tumour and vascular development will also be studied. The aim is to develop a platform for the study of tumour and vascular development in a more realistic environment, reducing costs and the use of animal models.