Researchers from the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), the Heidelberg Stem Cell Institute HI-STEM, and the National Center for Tumor Diseases (NCT) Heidelberg have achieved a significant breakthrough in breast cancer research by successfully cultivating stable tumor organoids—miniature, three-dimensional tumor models—from circulating tumor cells (CTCs) found in patients’ blood samples. CTCs are rare cancer cells that detach from primary tumors and travel through the bloodstream, potentially leading to metastases in vital organs such as the liver, lungs, or brain. Prior to this development, propagating these cells in culture was challenging, hindering research into therapy resistance and metastasis formation.
By analyzing these patient-derived organoids, the research team identified a specific molecular signaling pathway that enables the survival and therapy resistance of these metastasis-initiating cells. Understanding this pathway opens new avenues for developing targeted therapies aimed at eliminating these resilient cancer cells, thereby addressing the root cause of breast cancer metastasis. This advancement not only enhances our comprehension of metastatic mechanisms but also holds promise for improving treatment strategies and patient outcomes in breast cancer care. Click for More Details
