Shaping the Future of Oncology: 4D Bioprinting of Smart Biomaterials for Targeted Cancer Therapy

About the Project

According to WHO, cancer is the second leading cause of death worldwide, with nearly 1 in 6 deaths been due to cancer. The principal modes of cancer management are surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy and pharmaceutical agents. However, there are many side effects from extant treatments e.g., invasiveness of surgery, and with other treatments being systemic in nature; therefore, only a small fraction of the drugs reaches the tumour site. Due to the short period of actions, repeated doses are often required, which can lead to exacerbation of side effects and inconvenience. Due to these obstacles, targeted or localized release technology coupled with long-acting treatment functionality is a key research theme to replace systemic administration therapies and show potential for advancing cancer treatment including capability of personalizing the treatment. One especially promising therapeutic option gaining prominence is the use of multifunctional implants combining tumour-killing ability while promoting bone resorption/growth. Therefore, the main goal of this project is to investigate new approaches for targeted long-acting drug release for effective cancer therapies based on 3D and 4D bioprinted drug-loaded implants.

Briefly describe the training that will be provided through the research project

The successful applicant will be integrated into QUB research groups of experienced researchers with access to world-leading facilities. The techniques that will be used during the project cover a wide-range and include: Atomic Force Microscope (AFM), Computed Tomography (CT), Contact Angle Goniometry (CAG), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) Spectroscopy, Rheology, Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Bioprinted equipment and software, In Vitro Release Studies, and modelling.

Briefly outline the expected impact activities

The PhD student would be encouraged to engage in a variety of impact activities, disseminate the research project findings through public talks, and participate in QUB showcase events. Examples of impact activities includes: Blogs or web articles, Magazine articles, Public lectures, School visits, oral & poster Presentations (at local, national and international conferences), and Publication of scientific papers in peer reviewed journals.

Funding Notes

This project is not funded; applications are welcome from self-funding candidates.

References

Bioprinting, Bioinks, Niomaterials, Cancer, Implants, Drug Delivery