Cell Patterning to Mimic Tumor Anatomy

Abstract

The tumor microenvironment (TME) consists of extracellular matrix (ECM), nutrient and oxygen gradients, vascular networks, interstitial flows, and stromal cell types that are not typically found in normal, healthy tissues. To study tumor progression and the metastatic cascade, researchers have used culture models to mimic these aspects of tumor anatomy. Cell patterning techniques have been adapted to control matrix composition and tumor shape, as well as vascular and lymphatic networks near and within tumors, interstitial flows, and interactions between different cell types found in the tumor microenvironment. This chapter describes advances in self-assembled monolayers, self-assembled spheroids, microlithography, and microfluidics for patterning cancer cells. These techniques allow for the replication of many aspects of tumor anatomy, but require improvements to pattern multiple cell types in a way that reflects the proximity of cells in vivo. Additionally, tumor models must allow for ECM remodeling to mimic changes in matrix composition and structure observed during tumor progression. Engineered tumor models permit investigation of the effects of isolated aspects of the TME on tumor progression, which is challenging to explore in vivo.