Biofabrication of a 3D model for the functional investigation of stromal parameters influencing the behavior of breast cancer cells (C02)

• Subject Area: Biomaterials ; Biophysics
• Term: since 2018
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 326998133

This project aims at the biofabrication of a complex tumor-stroma model to specifically study the behavior of breast cancer cells as a function of stromal parameters. Using 3D bioprinting and bioinks with independently controllable physicochemical properties, the interactions of breast cancer and stromal cells will be investigated especially regarding correlations between cancer cell migration, protein secretion, and ECM remodeling. The modular approach allows us to recapitulate relevant aspects of the tumor microenvironment and to gain important mechanistic insights into how tumor-stroma interactions contribute to tumorigenesis.

• DFG Programme: CRC/Transregios
• Subproject of: TRR 225: From the fundamentals of biofabrication towards functional tissue models
• Applicant Institution: Julius-Maximilians-Universität Würzburg
• Project Heads: Professor Dr. Torsten Blunk, since 5/2018; Professor Dr. Ben Fabry; Dr. Katharina Wittmann, until 5/2018