Related Experiment Video
Updated: Dec 21, 2025
Generation of 3D Tumor Spheroids for Drug Evaluation Studies
Published on: February 24, 2023
3D Spheroids Propel Tumor Characterization
Shengli Li1, Zhao Zhang1, Leng Han2
1Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, McGovern Medical School at The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, TX 77030, USA.
Abstract:
Determining the functions of cancer driver genes in cancer models to mimic in vivo tumors has been a significant challenge. In a recent study, Han et al. implemented large-scale clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) screening in 3D lung cancer spheroids, revealing advantages of 3D spheroids over 2D monolayers, wherein novel therapeutic targets were identified, such as carboxypeptidase D (CPD).
Insights
Researchers used 3D lung cancer spheroids and clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) screening to identify new cancer targets. This 3D model better mimics tumors than 2D models, revealing carboxypeptidase D (CPD) as a potential therapeutic target.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Genetics
- Biotechnology
Background:
- Accurately modeling in vivo tumors is crucial for understanding cancer driver gene functions.
- Traditional 2D cell culture models have limitations in replicating the complex tumor microenvironment.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the utility of 3D lung cancer spheroids for large-scale clustered regularly interspaced short palindromic repeats (CRISPR) screening.
- To identify novel cancer driver genes and potential therapeutic targets using an advanced 3D screening model.
Main Methods:
- Implementation of large-scale CRISPR screening.
- Utilizing 3D lung cancer spheroids as an advanced cancer model.
- Comparison of 3D spheroids versus 2D monolayers for screening efficacy.
Main Results:
- 3D spheroids demonstrated significant advantages over 2D monolayers for CRISPR screening.
- Novel cancer driver genes were identified through the screening process.
- Carboxypeptidase D (CPD) was identified as a promising novel therapeutic target.
Conclusions:
- 3D lung cancer spheroids provide a more effective platform for functional cancer genomics screening.
- The study highlights the potential of CPD as a therapeutic target for lung cancer treatment.
