Fig. 2
From: Insights into high-grade serous carcinoma pathobiology using three-dimensional culture model systems
Methodology behind the various spheroid and organoid 3D model systems for EOC research.
As demonstrated in the first green panel, ovarian cancer cell lines maintained on adherent cultures or fresh patient samples can be used to generate spheroids or organoids. There are four main spheroid models including ultra-low attachment plates, hanging-droplets, agitation-based and microfluidics. Organoids can be generated as a droplet or mini-ring structure of Matrigel? or Cultrex BME?. Utilizing these classic spheroid and organoid approaches, another avenue to study EOC in a 3D capacity is through co-culture or organotypic model systems as shown in the second yellow panel. These models require multiple cell types, thus, EOC cells can be cultured with other cells associated with tumours or spheroids, such as the common immune cells found within the TME and any surrounding peritoneal cells like fibroblasts and mesothelial cells. This allows researchers to observe and differentiate the importance of these complex interactions within tumours and spheroids. Created with Biorender.com.