Invasive three-dimensional organotypic neoplasia from multiple normal human epithelia.

ABSTRACT: Refined cancer models are required if researchers are to assess the burgeoning number of potential targets for cancer therapeutics in a clinically relevant context that allows a fast turnaround. Here we use tumor-associated genetic pathways to transform primary human epithelial cells from the epidermis, oropharynx, esophagus and cervix into genetically defined tumors in a human three-dimensional (3D) tissue environment that incorporates cell-populated stroma and intact basement membrane. These engineered organotypic tissues recapitulated natural features of tumor progression, including epithelial invasion through basement membrane, a complex process that is necessary for biological malignancy in 90% of human cancers. Invasion was rapid and was potentiated by stromal cells. Oncogenic signal

SUBMITTER: Ridky TW 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3586217 | biostudies-literature | 2010 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature