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Cancer Patient-Derived Cell-Based Models: Applications and Challenges in Functional Precision Medicine
Jelena Dinić1, Sofija Jovanović Stojanov1, Miodrag Dragoj1
1Department of Neurobiology, Institute for Biological Research "Siniša Stanković"-National Institute of the Republic of Serbia, University of Belgrade, Bulevar Despota Stefana 142, 11108 Belgrade, Serbia.
Abstract:
The field of oncology has witnessed remarkable progress in personalized cancer therapy. Functional precision medicine has emerged as a promising avenue for achieving superior treatment outcomes by integrating omics profiling and sensitivity testing of patient-derived cancer cells. This review paper provides an in-depth analysis of the evolution of cancer-directed drugs, resistance mechanisms, and the role of functional precision medicine platforms in revolutionizing individualized treatment strategies. Using two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) cell cultures, patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models, and advanced functional assays has significantly improved our understanding of tumor behavior and drug response. This progress will lead to identifying more effective treatments for more patients. Considering the limited eligibility of patients based on a genome-targeted approach for receiving targeted therapy, functional precision medicine provides unprecedented opportunities for customizing medical interventions according to individual patient traits and individual drug responses. This review delineates the current landscape, explores limitations, and presents future perspectives to inspire ongoing advancements in functional precision medicine for personalized cancer therapy.
Insights
Functional precision medicine integrates omics and cell sensitivity testing for personalized cancer therapy. This approach enhances treatment strategies beyond genomic targeting, improving outcomes for more patients.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Precision Medicine
- Cancer Biology
Background:
- Personalized cancer therapy has advanced significantly.
- Functional precision medicine integrates omics profiling and patient-derived cancer cell sensitivity testing.
- This approach aims to improve treatment outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the evolution of cancer drugs and resistance mechanisms.
- To analyze the role of functional precision medicine in individualized treatment.
- To explore the current landscape, limitations, and future of functional precision medicine.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing two-dimensional (2D) and three-dimensional (3D) cell cultures.
- Employing patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models.
- Applying advanced functional assays to understand tumor behavior and drug response.
Main Results:
- Functional precision medicine platforms are revolutionizing individualized cancer treatment strategies.
- These platforms offer opportunities for customizing interventions based on patient traits and drug responses.
- Progress in this field leads to identifying more effective treatments for a broader patient population.
Conclusions:
- Functional precision medicine provides a powerful alternative to genome-targeted therapies, especially when eligibility is limited.
- It enables highly customized medical interventions.
- Continued advancements are crucial for realizing the full potential of personalized cancer therapy.

