3D Cell Biology

Objective: Client was interested in evaluating chemotherapeutic agents, including standard of care,  and combinations in ex vivo NSCLC PDX models.

Design: PDX tumors were dissociated to establish 3D tumor fragments that were cultured in vitro and subsequently tested with high-content imaging

Study Execution: We partnered with Champions Oncology to perform ex-vivo studies on their patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models. The >1200 models represent a diverse set of tumor types with extensive clinical and molecular characterization and can be used for evaluation of therapeutic treatment.. We generate 3D tumor fragments from the PDX tissue, for rapid, in vitro assessment of therapeutic candidates (small molecules, recombinant antibodies, immuno-therapies, and combination studies).

Our client was interested in identifying compounds that could protect against gut injury disease and needed a model system that recapitulated intenstinal biology. DefiniGen provided a stem-cell derived organoid for testing both stress and protective effects of client molecules. 

Advantages: Organs form intestinal lumen, allowing for modeling the disruption of epithelial barrier and tight junctions. Organoids can be stained and imaged, then analyzed using 2D max projections or true 3D object analysis depending on your study design. Data quality was improved even further by selecting organoids based on size, shape, and fluorescence intensity using the Cell Handler prior to performing the screen.