With greater technological advancements and understanding of pathophysiology, "
personalized medicine" has become a more realistic goal. In the field of
cancer,
personalized medicine is the ultimate objective, as each
cancer is unique and each
tumor is heterogeneous. For many decades, researchers have relied upon studying the histopathology of
tumors in the hope that it would provide clues to understanding the pathophysiology of
cancer. Current preclinical research relies heavily upon two-dimensional culture models. However, these models have had limited success in recreating the complex interactions between
cancer cells and the stroma environment in vivo. Thus, there is increasing impetus to shift to three-dimensional models, which more accurately reflect this phenomenon. With a more accurate in vitro
tumor model, drug sensitivity can be tested to determine the best treatment option based on the
tumor characteristics. Many methods have been developed to create
tumor models or "tumoroids," each with its advantages and limitations. One significant problem faced is the replication of angiogenesis that is characteristic of
tumors in vivo. Nonetheless, if three-dimensional models could be standardized and implemented as a preclinical research tool for therapeutic testing, we would be taking a step towards making personalized
cancer medicine a reality.