An in vitro model of meningioma constructed by 3D coaxial bioprinting

Abstract

Meningioma, a type of brain tumor, has a high incidence rate and requires a comprehensive treatment approach due to its invasive nature and varying malignancy. In vitro models for studying the molecular mechanisms of malignant meningiomas and drug screening are urgently needed. However, two-dimensional (2D) culture of meningioma cells has limitations and challenges. Three-dimensional (3D) printing technology can provide a more realistic in vitro research platform for tumor research. In this study, 3D coaxial bioprinting was used to fabricate an in vitro 3D model of meningioma that faithfully recapitulates the biological characteristics and microenvironment of this malignancy. The bioprinted construct features a fibrous core-shell structure that allows cell clustering and fusion into cell fibers, ultimately forming a complex 3D structure resembling meningioma. Our findings suggest that the 3D model of meningioma generated by coaxial bioprinting closely resembles the in vivo morphology and growth pattern. Compared with 2D culture, 3D culture conditions better simulated the tumor microenvironment and exhibited higher invasiveness and tumorigenicity. Comparative analysis of biomarker expression further demonstrated that 3D culture provides a more accurate reflection of the biological characteristics of tumors. Our research affirms that microtissue models produced by 3D coaxial bioprinting can replicate the in vivo environment of cancer cells, producing survival conditions that are nearly realistic and more conducive to the restoration of cancer cell traits in vitro.