4D BioManufacturing Lab
The cancer drug resistance accelerator (CDRA) chip is a microfluidic platform that applies defined drug gradients to tumors in vitro, enabling rapid induction and lineage tracking of polyploid giant cancer cells (PGCCs). Using this approach, we show that doxorubicin gradients generate PGCCs that spawn highly chemoresistant and invasive progeny. Importantly, DOX-induced PGCC-derived cells exhibit enhanced tumor growth and reduced therapeutic response in vivo. Consistent with these findings, analysis of breast cancer patient tissues revealed a grade-dependent increase in PGCC prevalence, supporting the clinical relevance of PGCC-driven tumor progression
Introducing the Multi-Inlet Spheroid Generator (MSG), a groundbreaking device designed for stable addition of liquid-containing drugs or cells into tumor spheroids. The MSG enables precise control over volume and sequence of solution injections without increasing pressure on the hanging drop. Through testing with patient-derived cancer cells, it showcases remarkable versatility for high-throughput drug screening and faithfully recapitulating the tumor microenvironment.