3D human colon model may replace animal testing in cancer labs

Researchers at the University of California, Irvine have developed a bioelectronic-integrated three-dimensional human colon model (3D-IVM-HC) that replicates key anatomical and cellular features of the human colon, including its curvature, layered structure, and cryptlike folds. This miniature model, measuring 5 by 10 millimeters, is constructed from human-compatible materials such as gelatin methacrylate and alginate, and is lined with human colon cells and fibroblasts to mimic the mucosal environment. The model supports more realistic cell behavior and interactions, resulting in a fourfold increase in cell density compared to traditional 2D cultures, enhancing physiological relevance and barrier function. The 3D-IVM-HC model addresses significant limitations of animal testing in colorectal cancer research by offering a more ethical, cost-effective, and scalable alternative that eliminates interspecies variability. Testing with the chemotherapy drug 5-fluorouracil demonstrated that cancer cells in the model exhibited drug resistance levels closer to clinical