Special technologies for ex vivo analysis of cancer

Abstract

Background: Predictive assays for cancer treatment are not new technology, but they have failed to meet the criteria necessary for standardized use in clinical decision-making. Methods: The authors summarize the use of predictive assays and the challenges and values associated with these assays in the clinical setting. Results: Predictive assays commercially available in the clinical setting are not standardized, have significant obstacles to overcome, and cannot be relied upon by health care professionals due to the limited value these assays provide to the decision-making process for the treatment of patients. Conclusions: A method that more closely recapitulates the human tumor microenvironment and accurately predicts response with high reproducibility would be beneficial to patient outcomes and quality of life.