Templated Three-Dimensional Engineered Bone Matrix as a Model for Breast Cancer Osteolytic Bone Metastasis Process

Abstract

Purpose Bone metastasis is one of the common causes of death relative to breast cancer. However, the evolvement of bone niche in cancer progression remains poorly understood. A three-dimensional (3D) engineered bone matrix was developed as an effective biomimetic model to explore the mechanism relative to bone cancer metastasis. Methods In the study, a 3D engineered bone matrix was developed via cell biomineralization templated by a biomimetic collagen template. The process of bone metastasis relative to breast cancer was investigated by co-culturing breast cancer MDA-MB-231-GFP cells with pre-osteogenic MC3T3-E1 cells on the 3D bone matrix. Results A typical bone matrix was obtained, where mineralized collagen fibers were packed into the bundle to form a 3D engineered bone matrix. As the cancer cells were invading along the way vertical to the alignment of mineralized collagen fiber, the bone matrix gradually became thinner, accompanied with the erosion of Col I and the loss of calcium and phosphorus. As a result, the disassembled structure of mineralized collagen fiber was observed, which may be attributed to osteolytic bone metastasis. Conclusion An engineered 3D bone-like matrix was successfully prepared via cell mineralization, which can act as a model for bone metastasis process. The study revealed mineralized collagen fiber disassembled at nanoscale relative to breast cancer cells.

Application of AI in detection of breast cancer with laboratory results monitoring

“…The intricate relationship between essential minerals like phosphorus and calcium and their impact on health conditions such as osteoporosis and breast cancer presents a complex interplay that continues to be a subject of scientific investigation and clinical interest [51]. Osteoporosis, characterized by reduced bone density and increased fracture risk, is closely linked to the balance of phosphorus and calcium in the body [52,53]. Calcium is a fundamental mineral vital for bone strength and integrity.…”