Three-dimensional preclinical models for Osteosarcoma: Advances and translational prospects

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Biomedical Engineering
• Cancer Research

Background:

• Osteosarcoma (OS) is a challenging bone cancer, especially when metastatic, with limited treatment progress due to inadequate preclinical models.
• Traditional 2D cell cultures and animal models fail to replicate the complex tumor microenvironment (TME) and cellular diversity crucial for OS.
• Developing more accurate models is essential for advancing OS research and patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the limitations of current osteosarcoma preclinical models.
• To examine the application of 3D culture technologies in osteosarcoma research.
• To highlight emerging 3D modeling techniques for improved OS disease modeling and drug development.

Main Methods:

• Review of current literature on osteosarcoma preclinical models.
• Analysis of three-dimensional (3D) culture technologies including spheroids, organoids, and 3D bioprinting.
• Assessment of the physiological relevance and applications of these 3D models in OS research.

Main Results:

• 3D culture models (spheroids, organoids, bioprinted constructs) offer enhanced physiological relevance compared to 2D cultures.
• These models recapitulate key OS features like TME complexity, hypoxia, and patient-specific heterogeneity.
• Emerging 3D technologies show promise for more effective preclinical drug screening and biomarker discovery.

Conclusions:

• Advanced 3D culture models are crucial for overcoming the limitations of traditional osteosarcoma research models.
• These platforms facilitate a deeper understanding of OS biology and facilitate precision oncology approaches.
• Future research should focus on leveraging and refining 3D bioprinting, organoids, and spheroid technologies for osteosarcoma therapeutic development.