Biomimetic Systems for Biomarkers Detection in Osteochondral Metastasis

Osteochondral metastasis, involving both bone and adjacent cartilage, poses significant diagnostic challenges due to its anatomical complexity and the subtle onset of molecular changes. Conventional imaging modalities often fail to detect early-stage lesions, underscoring the need for more sensitive and specific diagnostic tools. In response, biomarker-driven strategies, including protein markers, circulating tumor cells (CTCs), extracellular vesicles (EVs), and noncoding RNAs, have emerged as promising alternatives, yet they remain limited by low abundance, specificity, and clinical validation. This chapter explores the transformative potential of biomimetic systems, engineered platforms that mimic the structural and biochemical characteristics of native osteochondral tissue, to overcome these limitations. We highlight advanced fabrication techniques such as electrospinning and 3D bioprinting, which enable the development of high-surface-area, functionalized scaffolds capable of enhanced biomarker capture and real-time biosensing. Emerging applications include nanorobotic sensors, aptamer-based probes, and integrated platforms that combine diagnostics with therapeutic delivery. By bridging biological fidelity with engineering precision, biomimetic systems are redefining the landscape of metastatic cancer diagnostics. This chapter offers a comprehensive overview of these innovations, their clinical relevance, and the future direction toward personalized, minimally invasive, and real-time monitoring of osteotropic cancer spread.