Capture and Culture of Circulating Tumor Cells Using a Biodegradable 3D Scaffold for Patient-Derived Xenograft...

Patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models constructed by noninvasively accessible circulating tumor cells (CTCs) serve as pivotal and invaluable tools for oncology research and precision medicine. However, the rarity of CTCs in blood and their limited proliferation ability present significant challenges for establishing patient CTC-derived xenograft (CDX) models. In this study, a novel 3D cellulose scaffold is developed for efficient isolation and in situ culture of CTCs, with the aim of constructing CDX models. Characterized by a macroporous and flexible structure, the 3D cellulose scaffold achieves high-efficiency CTC capture while maintaining cell viability. Its excellent biocompatibility and permeability further promote the rapid and in situ growth of CTCs. Importantly, the self-supporting and biodegradable scaffold allows for direct implantation into immunodeficient mice without leaving any residual material. This 3D cellulose scaffold has been successfully employed to construct CDX models from breast cancer patients. The application of this platform may enhance our understanding of metastasis mechanisms and offer significant benefits for cancer therapy.