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Preclinical models for neuroblastoma: Advances and challenges
J C Nolan1, T Frawley1, J Tighe2
1Cancer Bio-Engineering Group, Department of Anatomy and Regenerative Medicine, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland; School of Pharmacy and Biomolecular Sciences, Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, Dublin, Ireland; National Children's Research Centre, Our Lady's Children's Hospital, Crumlin, Dublin, Ireland.
Tissue engineering offers advanced 3D models for pediatric neuroblastoma research. These models better represent tumor biology, aiding the development of more effective treatments for this aggressive childhood cancer.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Pediatric Cancer Research
Background:
- Neuroblastoma is a common, aggressive pediatric cancer with poor long-term outcomes for most patients.
- Current therapies are limited by challenges in accurately modeling tumor biology and diversity.
- Low patient incidence complicates clinical trials, necessitating robust preclinical testing.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current experimental models for neuroblastoma.
- To assess the utility of tissue engineering for creating advanced 3D neuroblastoma models.
- To explore how novel 3D in vitro systems can address key questions in neuroblastoma biology.
Main Methods:
- Discussion of existing experimental models for pediatric cancers.
- Assessment of tissue engineering techniques for recapitulating the tumor microenvironment.
- Review of current and emerging technologies for 3D cell culture.
Main Results:
- Tissue engineering provides tools to develop 3D cell models that mimic native tumor geometry, mechanics, and cell communication.
- These advanced models can better represent tumor heterogeneity and metabolic gradients.
- 3D in vitro systems offer improved platforms for preclinical testing and drug development.
Conclusions:
- Tissue-engineered 3D models hold significant promise for improving preclinical testing in neuroblastoma research.
- Novel in vitro culture systems are crucial for addressing limitations in current neuroblastoma studies.
- Advanced models are needed to develop more effective long-term treatments for this challenging pediatric cancer.
