Organoid models in oncology: advancing precision cancer therapy and vaccine development

Cancer Biol Med. 2025 Jul 24;22(8):903-927. doi: 10.20892/j.issn.2095-3941.2025.0127.

Abstract

Organoids are three-dimensional stem cell-derived models that offer a more physiologically relevant representation of tumor biology compared to traditional two-dimensional cell cultures or animal models. Organoids preserve the complex tissue architecture and cellular diversity of human cancers, enabling more accurate predictions of tumor growth, metastasis, and drug responses. Integration with microfluidic platforms, such as organ-on-a-chip systems, further enhances the ability to model tumor-environment interactions in real-time. Organoids facilitate in-depth exploration of tumor heterogeneity, molecular mechanisms, and the development of personalized treatment strategies when coupled with multi-omics technologies. Organoids provide a platform for investigating tumor-immune cell interactions, which aid in the design and testing of immune-based therapies and vaccines. Taken together, these features position organoids as a transformative tool in advancing cancer research and precision medicine.

Keywords: Organoids; oncology; precision therapy; vaccine.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cancer Vaccines* / immunology
  • Humans
  • Medical Oncology / methods
  • Neoplasms* / immunology
  • Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Neoplasms* / therapy
  • Organoids* / immunology
  • Organoids* / pathology
  • Precision Medicine* / methods
  • Tumor Microenvironment
  • Vaccine Development* / methods

Substances

  • Cancer Vaccines