TUMOR SPHEROID Meaning and
Definition
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A tumor spheroid refers to a three-dimensional multicellular aggregate that replicates the structural characteristics of a tumor. It is formed through the self-assembly of tumor cells, resulting in a compact and rounded mass without any specific organization. Tumor spheroids are often cultured in the laboratory as experimental models to mimic the behavior and properties of tumors in vivo.
These spheroids are typically derived from tumor cell lines or patient-derived tumor cells and are cultivated in specific conditions that mimic the tumor microenvironment. They can be created using different methods, including the hanging drop technique, ultra-low attachment plates, or bioreactors. By growing tumor cells as spheroids, researchers can study various aspects of tumorigenesis, such as tumor growth, metabolism, invasion, drug response, and interactions with the surrounding stroma.
Tumor spheroids exhibit several characteristics similar to solid tumors in vivo, including cellular heterogeneity, gradients of oxygen and nutrients, and resistance to drugs or therapies. They provide a more accurate representation of tumor behavior compared to traditional two-dimensional cell cultures, which often fail to replicate the complex interactions and architecture observed in tumors. Tumor spheroids are widely utilized in cancer research and drug development as valuable tools for investigating tumor biology, identifying new therapeutic targets, and evaluating the efficacy of anti-cancer drugs.
Common Misspellings for TUMOR SPHEROID
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Etymology of TUMOR SPHEROID
The etymology of the word "tumor spheroid" can be understood by breaking it down into its individual components:
1. Tumor: This word comes from the Latin word "tumor", which means "swelling" or "mass". It can also be traced back to the Proto-Indo-European root "*teuh-" meaning "to swell".
2. Spheroid: This word is derived from the Greek word "sphairoeidḗs", which is a combination of "sphaira" meaning "a ball" or "a sphere", and "eidos" meaning "form" or "shape". It is used to describe something that is approximately spherical in shape but not perfectly round.
When combined, "tumor spheroid" refers to a mass or swelling that has a roughly spherical shape, often used in the context of studying and researching tumors in scientific and medical fields.
