Dimensions of Cancer: In vitro models of the tumor microenvironment & community engagement in cancer research

Abstract

Sustained research efforts have advanced our knowledge of the complexities that make cancer a highly diverse and clinically challenging disease. Of the many factors, the tissue microenvironment is increasingly appreciated for its crucial role in tumor initiation, progression, recurrence, and treatment response. The microvasculature is a critical determinant of tissue perfusion, with important consequences for cellular metabolism, drug delivery, and metastasis. To better understand how tissue perfusion contributes to tumor malignancy, I fabricated microphysiological in vitro models of the tumor-vascular microenvironment and assessed the differential regulation of tumor hypoxia response in 2D versus 3D culture. Results from these studies point to the value of tissue engineering approaches for deciphering the interdependence between cancer cells and their vascular microenvironment. Laboratory-based research provides important insights on the biological mechanisms of disease, and these basic sciences approaches are strengthened by a broad understanding of the human and social dimensions of cancer. To this end, I helped initiate and sustain a community-based partnership that fosters dialogue between cancer patients and scientists. The partnership enables the mutual exchange of knowledge and experience across the community-campus boundary. This project led to several major outcomes, including a monthly seminar for non-academic audiences, a certificate program for public engagement, an undergraduate writing class about cancer, and several avenues for informal science education. The patient-researcher partnership has a sustained impact in graduate and postdoctoral training at Cornell and provides a valuable forum to our local cancer community.