4D printed ‘smart’ implants could offer improved breast cancer management

The implants are programmed to change size to better fit within the breast cavity, resulting in personalisation to an individual’s body. The implants also have the ability to release chemotherapy drugs, protecting patients from the return of the cancer cells in the area. The research is detailed in Science Direct. 

In a statement, Dr Niamh Buckley, Reader from the School of Pharmacy and responsible for the in vitro evaluation of these novel implants, said: “Chemotherapy plays a crucial role in the treatment of breast cancer, but it is associated with harsh side effects. The use of technology such as this, which allows a concentrated delivery of the drug just to where it is needed, can help make treatment more effective and kinder.” 

The study was conducted by a team from the School of Pharmacy led by Professor Dimitrios Lamprou, Chair of Biofabrication and Advanced Manufacturing and in collaboration with Professor Luca Casettari from the University of Urbino Carlo Bo in Italy.