Methods to study the tumor microenvironment under controlled oxygen conditions

Trends Biotechnol. 2014 Nov;32(11):556-563. doi: 10.1016/j.tibtech.2014.09.006. Epub 2014 Oct 2.

Abstract

The tumor microenvironment (TME) is a complex heterogeneous assembly composed of a variety of cell types and physical features. One such feature, hypoxia, is associated with metabolic reprogramming, the epithelial-mesenchymal transition, and therapeutic resistance. Many questions remain regarding the effects of hypoxia on these outcomes; however, only a few experimental methods enable both precise control over oxygen concentration and real-time imaging of cell behavior. Recent efforts with microfluidic platforms offer a promising solution to these limitations. In this review, we discuss conventional methods and tools used to control oxygen concentration for cell studies, and then highlight recent advances in microfluidic-based approaches for controlling oxygen in engineered platforms.

Keywords: hypoxia; microfluidics; tumor microenvironment.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cytological Techniques / methods*
  • Humans
  • Hypoxia
  • Microfluidics / methods*
  • Neoplasms / pathology*
  • Neoplasms / physiopathology*
  • Oxygen / metabolism*
  • Tumor Microenvironment*

Substances

  • Oxygen