Cancer research has come a long way in recent years, with a focus on developing more advanced models to accurately mirror the complexity of human tumors. Traditional methods like two-dimensional cell cultures and animal models have limitations in capturing the full genetic and phenotypic diversity of solid tumors, leading to the need for more sophisticated tumor modeling techniques.
A recent study conducted by researchers from Henan Provincial People’s Hospital and the Academy of Medical Science compared mechanical dissociation and enzymatic digestion for generating patient-derived organoids (PDOs). The study emphasized the importance of maintaining the tumor microenvironment, with mechanical dissociation proving to be more effective in preserving the native architecture and cellular heterogeneity of the tumor. This is crucial for accurately modeling human cancers.
On the other hand, enzymatic digestion, while disrupting the native tissue environment, yields a more homogeneous cell population that is ideal for large-scale drug screening due to its reproducibility and controllability. The study also delved into the impact of these techniques on organoid properties such as stemness, differentiation potential, and tumor heterogeneity, all of which are vital for personalized medicine and long-term organoid culture.
Published in the journal “Cell Organoid,” these findings are set to shape the future of organoid-based cancer models and deepen our understanding of tumor biology. Dr. Haijun Li, the corresponding author of the study, highlights the importance of these insights in guiding researchers to select the best tissue dissociation strategy for their specific research goals.
The review on tissue dissociation techniques is expected to have a significant impact on oncology research, particularly for solid tumors. By refining organoid derivation methods, scientists can create more accurate cancer models, improving drug screening processes and potentially leading to more personalized and effective treatment strategies. This advancement has the potential to revolutionize cancer therapy, offering better patient outcomes through tailored treatments based on individual tumor characteristics and responses to therapy.
For further information, readers can refer to the study published in “Cell Organoid” by Jing Ren et al, DOI: 10.26599/CO.2024.9410009. This research, provided by Tsinghua University Press, marks a significant step forward in the field of cancer research and holds promise for the future of personalized medicine in oncology.
