Supplementary file 1_Proof-of-concept validation and characterisation of a DLP 3D bioprinted vascularised colorectal cancer model.docx

Nevertheless, in vitro experimental models are limited to monolayer (co)cultures of endothelial and malignant cells, scratch and transwell migration assays where the vascularisation process is largely neglected. Direct contacts between different cell types and extracellular matrix (ECM) components, and processes like cell migration and invasion and ECM remodeling are also difficult to reproduce using conventional culturing methods.

This study aims to address some of these limitations by developing digital light processing (DLP) 3D bioprinted model of colorectal cancer based on methacrylated gelatin (GelMA) and containing endothelialised channels. The materials and approaches proposed here were additionally validated with 3D biofabricated in-house made designs based on the (bio)casting of GelMA and collagen hydrogels, and with 3D printed transwell assays.