I would like to transfect micro-RNA mimics in 3D models. Lipofectamine RNAimax works well in monolayer cultures but I couldn't find convincing evidence it could work sufficiently well in 3D.
To the best of my knowldge there is no transfection protocol for 3D hydrogel, but I may advise you to transfect the cells in 2D monolayer culture and then you can embed the cells into the 3D model hydrogel.
Using RNAiMAX or any transfecting agent allows by improving the contact surface for penetration. In 3D culture, its difficult to approach as all the cell surfaces are not open for contact.
Transfecting them early in 2D and then 3D modeling is a relatively good solution but again you will need to look into what kind of modification you are looking for, temporary or permanent (Si RNA, Sh RNA etc).
If you have to do the transfection after the 3D culture then see if you can may be dislodge or permiabalise your hydrogel for the RNAiMAX to reach the surface of the cells.