Initially, our research focused on the fabrication of microfluidic devices to study tumor mechanics and invasion under physiologically relevant conditions. Throughout this project, we have published several peer-reviewed articles advancing the understanding of tumor invasion and mechanics. For example, we contributed perspective articles on spheroid mechanics and their implications for cell invasion (Advances in Physics: X), as well as on 3D cell migration using microfluidic platforms (Trends in Cancer). Additionally, we reported on programmable micro-platforms for cancer cell invasion (Small), alongside several studies on microfluidic systems for the mechanical characterization of cancer spheroids and cancer migration under physiological conditions.
We further developed biomimetic extracellular matrices (ECMs) with tunable porosity and stiffness to investigate cancer cell invasion and migration, incorporating key invasion biomarkers such as epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT). In parallel, we designed microfluidic devices capable of measuring the viscoelastic properties of breast cancer spheroids under dynamic compression. These studies revealed that benign tissues exhibit higher elasticity and viscosity compared to malignant ones. Moreover, differences in relaxation behavior and morphology among malignant spheroids were correlated with cytoskeletal organization and cell–cell adhesion strength.
Beyond these developments, we introduced several novel microscale platforms for investigating cell invasion under physiological conditions. Notably, we created a 3D matrix-based microfluidic system that uncovered a synergistic relationship between interstitial flow (IF) and transforming growth factor-β (TGF-β) in promoting EMT in lung cancer spheroids. By closely replicating in vivo microenvironments, this platform enables real-time analysis of cancer cell signaling and invasion, offering key insights into the mechanobiology of tumor progression.
Furthermore, we developed a programmable, multifunctional 3D cancer cell invasion “microbucket-hydrogel” platform by integrating function-variable microbuckets with ECM-like hydrogels. This adaptable system effectively mimics dynamic tumor microenvironments and provides a versatile tool for cancer research, biofabrication, cell signaling studies, and drug screening.
As part of this project, we also organized several interdisciplinary workshops in collaboration with medical centers and TU Delft, facilitating knowledge exchange on tumor-on-a-chip technologies and our findings with leading partners and collaborators in oncology and cancer invasion research.
Looking ahead, a key direction for this research is the development of heterogeneous spheroids that replicate the diverse cellular populations within complex tumors, further enhancing the physiological relevance of in vitro tumor models.
