In this project we aim to develop a 3D culture environment for myeloma cells, to optimize an environment in which interaction between relevant cell types can take place mimicking the bone marrow of a multiple myeloma patient.
The system is based on microgels that consist of synthetic microparticles (in the order of 5 to 15 microns diamneter), coated with different biomolecules such as fibronectin, collagen type I, hyaluronic acid or chondroitin sulphate. These are proteins or polysaccharides characteristic of the extracellular matrix of many tissues. As a proof of concept in this project, we will work on the culture of multiple myeloma (MM) cells in an environment able to support tumour cells with the same functional activity and markers as in the natural niche.
The project coordinates activites at our group with another group at CIBER-BBN that also specialises in biomaterials engieering (IP Ramón Martínez Máñez) and a group at CIBERONC (IP Amparo Sempere Talens) with clinicians experts in the treament and clinical research of MM.