Advancing the Study of Glioblastoma Through 3D Tumor Models

TL;DR

This paper reviews recent advances in 3D tumor models for glioblastoma, aiming to better understand and treat this aggressive brain cancer.

Contribution

The paper provides a comprehensive overview of how 3D tumor models can capture the complexity of glioblastoma for improved preclinical research.

Findings

3D tumor models replicate the structural and biochemical complexity of glioblastoma.

These models offer potential to bridge preclinical research and patient care.

Challenges remain in translating 3D models into clinical applications.

Abstract

Glioblastoma is an aggressive brain tumor characterized by marked cellular plasticity and molecular heterogeneity, which drive therapeutic resistance and near-universal recurrence. To better reflect this complexity, researchers have developed three-dimensional tumor models that recreate key features, such as cell interactions and the biochemical environment. This review aims to describe recent advances in these models, discuss practical considerations, and provide insight into the potential of three-dimensional tumor models to strengthen the connection between preclinical research and patient care.

Glioblastoma (GBM), the most aggressive primary brain malignancy, remains a challenge to experimentally model. Accurately modeling the intra- and intertumoral heterogeneity of GBMs is essential for enhancing the predictive power of preclinical models and improving the effectiveness of current therapies. This review highlights recent advances in 3D tumor modeling, which accurately replicate the structural, cellular, and biochemical complexity of GBMs. We examine their translational potential and discuss current barriers to clinical translation.

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