Development and characterization of innovative 3D in vitro models
To investigate the effects of hypoxia on tumor cells in vitro, the development of new devices is essential. Systems capable of dynamically simulating hypoxia are particularly important, as they can help to better understand the mechanisms behind cellular radioresistance and metastasis formation. Our group is developing new devices that can assist in treatment planning verification and be used in laboratory studies. Recently, we patented a new device that could be used to cultivate 3D cells in a gradient of oxygenation: Chamber for culturing cells in a controlled gas environment. European Patent Application 05.09.2023, Number: EP23195493.4
Figure 5: An example of a biological phantom (3D in vitro model)
In this figure, an example of a biological phantom (3D in vitro model), made in collaboration with Dr. Bonani, (BIOTech, University of Trento, Italy). The CHO (Chinese Hamster Ovary) cells are growing on silk fiber immersed in an alginate gel (Alginic acid salt; alginates are widely used as thickeners and emulsifiers by the food and cosmetics industry).