Ex Vivo Organotypic Brain Slice Models for Glioblastoma: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Neuro-oncology
• Translational Cancer Research
• Ex vivo models

Background:

• Glioblastoma (GBM) remains a challenging brain tumour with limited treatment options.
• Ex vivo models are crucial for understanding GBM biology and testing therapies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review ex vivo brain slice models in glioblastoma (GBM) research.
• To evaluate their utility in studying tumour invasion, microenvironment interactions, and therapeutic responses.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search (January 2010-July 2025) following PRISMA guidelines.
• Inclusion of studies using patient-derived or hybrid ex vivo brain slice models for GBM research.
• Focus on models assessing tumour invasion, microenvironment, and treatment efficacy.

Main Results:

• Twenty-six studies met inclusion criteria, predominantly investigating GBM invasion (69%) and therapeutic responses (69%).
• Organotypic slices accurately recapitulated GBM features like invasion patterns and patient-specific drug sensitivity.
• Engineered systems showed improved perfusion and control, but methodological variability limits comparability.

Conclusions:

• Ex vivo brain slice models are highly relevant for translational GBM research and treatment evaluation.
• Methodological heterogeneity and lack of standardization impede reproducibility and validation.
• Standardizing protocols is essential for advancing precision oncology strategies in GBM.