A three-dimensional in vitro model of lymphangiogenesis in tumor microenvironment

Here, we presented ECM incorporated new macro-fluidic platform for physiological relevant lymphangiogenesis model which has lumen structure and button-like junctions. Using this model, we successfully developed tumor microenvironment applying cancer spheroid which has hypoxic core. Interestingly, vascular endothelial growth factors (VEGFs) combination and induced interstitial flow in tumor site facilitate lymphangiogensis and promote cancer metastasis. Furthermore, this platform has a possibility for adaptive immune model since DC shows migration to new lymphatic vessel and transmigration through the lymphatic endothelium. Moreover, the macro-fluidic platform can be performed biological analysis on a chip, such as qRT-PCR, western blot, ELISA, immunostaining and monitoring in real time for cell development and migration.