A 3D Self-Assembly Platform Integrating Decellularized Matrix Recapitulates In Vivo Tumor Phenotypes and Heterogeneity.

ABSTRACT: Three-dimensional (3D) in vitro cell culture models are invaluable tools for investigating the tumor microenvironment. However, analyzing the impact of critical stromal elements, such as extracellular matrix (ECM), remains a challenge. In this study, we developed a hydrogel-free self-assembly platform to establish ECM-rich 3D "MatriSpheres" to deconvolute cancer cell-ECM interactions. Mouse and human colorectal cancer MatriSpheres actively incorporated microgram quantities of decellularized small intestine submucosa ECM, which proteomically mimicked colorectal cancer tumor ECM compared with traditional formulations like Matrigel. Solubilized ECM, at subgelation concentrations, was organized by colorectal cancer cells into intercellular stroma-like regions within 5 days, displaying morpholo

SUBMITTER: Buckenmeyer MJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12048290 | biostudies-literature | 2025 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature