Fig. 1

Schematic illustration of 3D printed Gel-SA-CuO hydrogel scaffolds for inhibiting postoperative tumor recurrence. a CuO nanoparticles were initially synthesized by the reaction of CuCl₂, H₂O₂, and NaOH using polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) as the stabilizer. b By mixing CuO nanoparticles with gelatin and sodium alginate, Gel-SA-CuO hydrogels were successfully prepared. c Gel-SA-CuO hydrogels were used as bioink for fabricating 3D printed Gel-SA-CuO hydrogel scaffolds. d Through implanting Gel-SA-CuO hydrogel scaffolds in the resection site, efficient inhibition of tumor recurrence after primary resection can be achieved. e The anticancer mechanism was associated with glutathione depletion induced ferroptosis and photothermia augmented chemodynamic therapy