Bioengineering is transforming the field of cancer research, and the Moffitt Cancer Center is leading the way in this revolutionary movement. The center is the first National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center with a dedicated bioengineering department. This interdisciplinary science combines engineering and physical sciences with oncology to revolutionize our understanding and treatment of cancer. In a recent commentary published, it was noted that bioengineering has the potential to greatly impact the future of cancer research. The collaboration between engineering and oncology has the potential to develop innovative solutions for cancer diagnosis and treatment.
Published in Cancer Cell, W. Gregory Sawyer, Ph.D., and Elsa R. Flores, Ph.D., present their innovative approach to speeding up cancer research and advancements in treatment through bioengineering.
“The complexity of cancer has been a major challenge for scientists,” said Sawyer, who chairs Moffitt’s Department of Bioengineering. “Traditional methods often struggle to understand the complex interactions between cancer cells, the immune system, and the surrounding environment. Cancer engineering offers a unique perspective by integrating these diverse fields, creating a powerful platform for developing next-generation solutions.Cancer engineering integrates a variety of fields such as system dynamics, nanomaterials, robotics, and biofabrication to address cancer comprehensively. This comprehensive approach has the potential to improve early detection using microfluidic devices and advanced imaging methods. Furthermore, nanomaterials engineered at a microscopic level could transform drug delivery by targeting cancer cells while minimizing harm to healthy tissues.
The possibilities extend even further. 3D bioprinting technology could create personalized tumor models, enabling researchers to assess the effectiveness and performance of drugs.Customizing treatment plans for each patient is crucial. By using advanced mathematical modeling based on engineering principles, we can gain a better understanding of the complex biological processes of cancer. This could lead to the development of more successful therapies.
“The potential of cancer engineering is incredibly promising,” stated Flores, associate center director of Basic Science at Moffitt. “We anticipate that more universities and cancer centers will follow Moffitt’s example and establish specialized cancer engineering programs to encourage collaboration and speed up the progress in the battle against cancer.”
