Immunotherapy is a rapidly growing field in cancer treatment, with the aim of modulating tumor immunity to promote tumor-rejection. The development of immunotherapies is a complex process that requires the use of advanced technologies to evaluate the efficacy of compounds and therapeutic antibodies on immune cell infiltration or to screen immune cell populations for use in immunotherapy. In this blog post, we will explore how our in vitro immuno-oncology models can be used to accelerate the drug discovery and development process for immunotherapies. Our expertise lies in transforming tissues into actionable insights and bridging the gap between in vitro assays and in vivo results through the use of best-in-class cell culture models.
Advantages of Our In Vitro Immuno-Oncology Models
One of the key advantages of our in vitro immuno-oncology models is the ability to assess the effect of compounds and therapeutic antibodies on immune cell infiltration. Tumor-infiltrating immune cells are associated with better prognosis for cancer patients, and in vitro assays of immune cell infiltration can be used to evaluate the efficacy of immunotherapies designed to promote the immune cell response to tumor cells. Immunohistochemistry (IHC) is a typical analysis method for labeling T-cells in tumor tissue samples, but it is low throughput and costly. In vitro immuno-oncology models offer a more efficient and cost-effective alternative.
3D Cell Culture Models and Immuno-Oncology Models
Our in vitro immuno-oncology models also allow for the screening of immune cell populations for use in immunotherapy. The 3D cell culture models are more biologically relevant, and allow for proper assessment of immunotherapies designed to promote the immune cell response to tumor cells. The assay involves monitoring the interaction of therapeutics with immune cells in a 2D or 3D assay format. The protocol involves using 3D cell models, grown to approximately 200 μm in diameter, and seeding PBMCs at 4000 cells/well. The markers used for analysis include DAPI (total cell count), CD3, CD8, CD45RO, and other markers available on request.
These patented and proprietary technologies for tissue imaging, tissue processing, and image analysis are critical to the success of our in vitro immuno-oncology models. This approach allows for uniform labeling across thick tissues while preserving histological integrity, and the clearing process is reversible, allowing for further analyses. Specializing in many areas, we differentiate ourselves through our expertise in advanced imaging and image analysis, 3D cell culture models, and AI-enhanced digital pathology.
3D cell culture is a method of growing cells in a three-dimensional environment that more closely mimics the natural in vivo microenvironment. This allows for a more biologically relevant assessment of immunotherapies, as cells grown in 3D models can better replicate in vivo characteristics and interactions with other cells and cellular components. 3D cell culture models offer an excellent format for confirming results of in vitro screening using 2D cells, and for screening hits and lead compounds for potential toxic liabilities. However, determining when exactly to use a 3D cell culture model will depend on the specific research question but will also depend on the cost, throughput and in vivo relevancy of the 3D cell culture model.
Work With Us
Our advanced imaging and analysis technologies can provide important insights in the drug discovery process for immunotherapies. We offer high content screening for immune modulators, and have experience with immuno-oncology drug discovery and development. These tools ensure that drugs fail faster during the discovery process and that researchers can answer more complex research questions to inform their programs.
In vitro immuno-oncology models are an important tool in the drug discovery and development process for immunotherapies, and we are at the forefront of this field. If you are interested in learning more about our in vitro immuno-oncology models, please reach out to a member of our team to get started today!