Organotypic models of ovarian cancer are 3D models containing defined extracellular matrices, such as collagen and fibronectin, ovarian cancer cells with specific genetic/molecular characteristics, and one or more cancer-associated stromal cell types (fibroblasts, mesothelial cells, endothelial cells) to mimic specific metastatic niches of ovarian cancer (omentum, peritoneum, interstitial stroma) and the complex interactions within tumor tissues. These models allow for testing new anticancer drugs targeted for each subgroup and their combination with traditional chemotherapy drugs.
The innovative aspects concern the possibility of using the 3D organotypic tailored models of ovarian cancer as predictive models in vitro in the "priority test" in the translation between in vitro and in vivo. The 3D models can be used to test responses to new anticancer molecules alone or in combination with those in use in current clinical practice. This will allow for an effective low-cost selection of "lead" molecules to be sent to in vivo preclinical trials.