Abstract
Transitional cell carcinoma (TCC) is the second most common malignancy of the genito-urinary tract. To date, the therapy options available seem unable to prevent TCC recurrence and its progression, even though therapy studies are constantly investigating new treatment options. A great variety of TCC models have been described. For each study, the model has to be modified according to the specific investigative aim. The establishment of reproducible models is a continuing challenge. Currently, there is a strong tendency towards 3-dimensional models for in vitro studies. The aim of this article was to review current ex vivo and in vivo models used in studies of TCC therapy. We describe 2- and 3-dimensional cell and tissue cultures, as well as the set-up, investigative options and detection methods used in rodent heterotopic and orthotopic models.
- Transitional cell carcinoma
- bladder cancer
- experimental model
- in vitro
- in vivo
- experimental therapy
- review
Footnotes
- Received May 10, 2007.
- Revision received July 5, 2007.
- Accepted July 26, 2007.
- Copyright© 2007 International Institute of Anticancer Research (Dr. John G. Delinassios), All rights reserved