Generation of 3D Tumor Spheroids for Drug Evaluation Studies

J Vis Exp. 2023 Feb 24:(192). doi: 10.3791/65125.

Abstract

In recent decades, in addition to monolayer-cultured cells, three-dimensional tumor spheroids have been developed as a potentially powerful tool for the evaluation of anticancer drugs. However, the conventional culture methods lack the ability to manipulate the tumor spheroids in a homogeneous manner at the three-dimensional level. To address this limitation, in this paper, we present a convenient and effective method of constructing average-sized tumor spheroids. Additionally, we describe a method of image-based analysis using artificial intelligence-based analysis software that can scan the whole plate and obtain data on three-dimensional spheroids. Several parameters were studied. By using a standard method of tumor spheroid construction and a high-throughput imaging and analysis system, the effectiveness and accuracy of drug tests performed on three-dimensional spheroids can be dramatically increased.

Publication types

  • Video-Audio Media
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Antineoplastic Agents* / pharmacology
  • Antineoplastic Agents* / therapeutic use
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Cell Line, Tumor
  • Drug Evaluation
  • Humans
  • Neoplasms* / drug therapy
  • Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Spheroids, Cellular / pathology

Substances

  • Antineoplastic Agents