METHODS AND KITS FOR EVALUATING AND MEASURING THE ONCOLOGICAL STATUS OF TISSUE SAMPLES IN THREE-DIMENSIONAL PHYSIOLOGICAL MATRICES

摘要

Three-dimensional physiological matrices, methods,apparatus and kits for the expedited design, testing and evaluationof oncological remedies are provided. Key aspects of theinventions include matrices, and especially gel matrices, comprisingone or more physiological fibers, which are adapted and arrangedto provide conditions which permit behaviors, such as themovement of cells away from the margins of samples of target tissuethrough the matrix, to be evaluated in a manner that producesdata useful for evaluating the oncological status and characteristicsof the cells. In a further key aspect, the invention permits the invitro testing and analyses of one or more conventional, experimentalor theoretical therapies with respect to specific target tissues orcells. Among such therapies are therapeutic compounds and combinationsthereof, radiation therapies, combinations of therapeuticcompounds and radiation and numerous other possible therapies.