Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 16, 2026
12:24
A Three-Dimensional Spheroid Model to Investigate the Tumor-Stromal Interaction in Hepatocellular Carcinoma
Published on: September 30, 2021
Three-dimensional cellular spheroid formation provides human prostate tumor cells with tissue-like features
Akimitsu Takagi1, Masatoshi Watanabe, Yasuhisa Ishii
1Department of Pathologic Oncology, Institute of Molecular and Experimental Medicine, Mie University Graduate School of Medicine, Tsu, Japan. akimitsu-takagi@yakult.co.jp
Anticancer Research
|March 14, 2007
Summary
Human prostate tumor cells grown as spheroids mimic tissue, showing reduced growth but increased VEGF. This 3D model offers insights into tumor biology and potential therapeutic responses.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cell Biology
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Investigated cellular biological responses in LNCaP human prostate tumor cells under varied growth conditions.
- Examined differences between 2D monolayer cultures, 3D spheroids, and in vivo solid tumors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the biological differences of prostate tumor cells in 2D vs. 3D culture models.
- To assess the utility of spheroid models for studying tumor behavior and response to treatment.
Main Methods:
- Cultured LNCaP cells in 2D monolayers and 3D spheroids.
- Grew solid tumors from LNCaP cells in immune-deprived mice.
- Analyzed cell growth, VEGF production, Ki-67 expression, gene profiles, and prostate-specific antigen (PSA) levels.
Main Results:
- Spheroids exhibited reduced cell growth and increased VEGF production compared to monolayers.
- Ki-67 positive cells were peripheral in spheroids, with a necrotic core.
- Gene expression in solid tumors resembled spheroids more than monolayers.
- PSA levels in spheroid cultures increased over time and decreased with anticancer agents.
Conclusions:
- Prostate tumor cell spheroids demonstrate tissue-like characteristics.
- 3D spheroid models provide a more relevant platform for studying prostate tumor biology than 2D cultures.
- Spheroid models may be valuable for evaluating anticancer agent efficacy.
