A breast cancer 3D model derived from tissue biopsies

Background: Breast cancer is the second most common diagnosed malignancy worldwide. Unfortunately, treatment efficacy cannot be guaranteed and is highly influenced by tumor heterogeneity. To combat this, a patient tailored clinical model needs to be developed to guide the patient’s treatment regimen.

Herein, the development in the field of (tumor) organoids provides new opportunities. Organoids are patient derived aggregates which grow in 3D and maintain self-renewal pluripotency and lineage specific differentiation. Therefore, in contrast with conventional cell lines, they are thought to maintain patient heterogeneity and characteristics. However, a clear understanding and developed protocol for breast (cancer) organoids test multiple therapy options and guide therapy is lacking.



Hypothesis: We hypothesize that breast cancer organoids will result in a prospective clinical model that is predictive of treatment response.



Opportunity: The establishment and characterization of breast cancer organoids will yield conclusive information on the (epi)-genetic and phenotypic stability of organoids in culture, and the relevance of such organoids as patient avatars.



Impact: Breast cancer organoids may be used to prospectively predict response and guide the selection of more effective treatments improving and prolonging patient survival.

We hypothesize that breast cancer organoids will result in a prospective clinical model that is predictive of treatment response.

n.a.

Patients will undergo standard diagnostics and work-up according to the Dutch National Guidelines, including the marker placement procedure. During the marker placement procedure an accessory tumor tissue biopsy (14G needle) will be taken by an expert breast radiologist.