The Use of 3D Printed Microporous-Strut Polycaprolactone Scaffolds for Targeted Local Delivery of Chemotherapeutic Agent for Breast Cancer Application

Local recurrent cancer remains a challenge for breast cancer patients receiving implants after mastectomy or lumpectomy. The use of radiotherapy and/or systemic administration of chemotherapeutic agents post-surgery can be beneficial yet they also kill healthy cells and introduce systemic side effects. In this study, a new method was introduced to utilize 3D printed microporous polycaprolactone (PCL) scaffolds as a multifunctional device—an implant and a drug delivery vehicle for targeted local delivery. Their microporous structure was characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and atomic force microscopy (AFM). The dependence of release profiles of Doxorubicin (DOX) loaded scaffolds on pH and ionic strength of the environment was demonstrated. Lastly, their chemotherapeutic effect was characterized by in vitro. Overall, the results demonstrated the utility of the microporosity and surface charge of PCL scaffolds to immobilize DOX for local, targeted drug delivery.