Optimizing GBM organoid construction with hydrogel-based models: GelMA-HAMA scaffold supports GBM organoids with clonal growth for drug screening

Adult glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly malignant tumor with a poor prognosis and high mortality rate. As versatile 3D culture systems in vitro, organoid models are emerging as a promising new tool for GBM research and combat. However, Matrigel, the most used extracellular matrix, is animal-derived with a complex composition and significant batch-to-batch variability, requiring further optimization for GBM organoid construction. Hydrogels, high-affinity polymers, have been widely employed in organoid construction for their customizable properties. In the present study, we selected and tested several commonly used hydrogel materials-hyaluronic acid methacryloyl (HAMA), chitosan methacryloyl (CSMA), and gelatin methacryloyl (GelMA)-for the construction of GBM organoids. To address the limitations of a single Matrigel, we combined Matrigel with different hydrogels and found that hydrogels influenced glioblastoma stem cells and organoid formation in distinct ways. Matrigel-HAMA (MH) promoted the formation of independent spherical clones but with a significantly lower glioblastoma stem cell (GSC) proliferation rate. GelMA-HAMA(GH) could replace Matrigel preserving the characteristics and proliferative capacity of GSCs and supported the formation of more compact spherical clones than MH did. Further experimentation with ribosomal inhibitor CX5461 and CX5461 + IFNβ indicated that GH-based GBM organoid model constituted an efficient system for GBM drug testing, discovery, and precision medicine.