Current studies use co-culture systems comprised of isolated adipocytes and ovarian cancer cells. These adipocytes are differentiated in vitro from pre adipocytes. These cells are then separated through a transwell insert and therefore lack direct cell to cell contact.
This ex vivo culture method offers a model to study the direct interaction of cancer cells with the adipose microenvironment. Our model preserves the structure of the human momentum and therefore maintains the various cell types that are typically in this organ. In addition to adipocytes, these cells include supporting fibroblasts as well as immune cells.
This model also maintains these cells in their inherent matrix. This model provides an excellent platform for the development and evaluation of novel therapeutic approaches to target metastatic cancer cells in this niche.
