Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 10, 2025
Orthotopic Transplantation of Breast Tumors as Preclinical Models for Breast Cancer
Published on: May 18, 2020
The past, present, and future of breast cancer models for nanomedicine development
Paz Boix-Montesinos1, Paula M Soriano-Teruel2, Ana Armiñán1
1Centro de Investigación Príncipe Felipe, Polymer Therapeutics Laboratory, Av. Eduardo Primo Yúfera 3, E-46012 Valencia, Spain.
Abstract:
Even given recent advances in nanomedicine development of breast cancer treatment in recent years and promising results in pre-clinical models, cancer nanomedicines often fail at the clinical trial stage. Limitations of conventional in vitro models include the lack of representation of the stromal population, the absence of a three-dimensional (3D) structure, and a poor representation of inter-tumor and intra-tumor heterogeneity. Herein, we review those cell culture strategies that aim to overcome these limitations, including cell co-cultures, advanced 3D cell cultures, patient-derived cells, bioprinting, and microfluidics systems. The in vivo evaluation of nanomedicines must consider critical parameters that include the enhanced permeability and retention effect, the host's immune status, and the site of tumor implantation. Here, we critically discuss the advantages and limitations of current in vivo models and report how the improved selection and application of breast cancer models can improve the clinical translation of nanomedicines.
Insights
Advanced breast cancer models improve nanomedicine translation. New in vitro and in vivo models address limitations, enhancing the clinical success of cancer nanomedicines.
Area of Science:
- Biomedical Engineering
- Oncology
- Nanomedicine
Background:
- Conventional in vitro models fail to represent tumor heterogeneity and 3D structure.
- Cancer nanomedicines show promise in pre-clinical studies but often fail in clinical trials.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review cell culture strategies overcoming in vitro model limitations.
- To discuss in vivo model parameters for nanomedicine evaluation.
- To improve clinical translation of breast cancer nanomedicines.
Main Methods:
- Review of cell co-cultures, 3D cell cultures, patient-derived cells, bioprinting, and microfluidics.
- Critical discussion of in vivo model advantages and limitations.
- Analysis of enhanced permeability and retention effect, immune status, and tumor implantation site.
Main Results:
- Advanced cell culture strategies address limitations of conventional models.
- Improved in vivo models enhance nanomedicine evaluation.
- Selection and application of appropriate models are crucial for clinical translation.
Conclusions:
- Novel in vitro and in vivo models are essential for successful nanomedicine development.
- Addressing model limitations can bridge the gap between pre-clinical promise and clinical reality.
- Optimized model selection will improve the clinical translation of breast cancer nanomedicines.
