Development of Methodology to Maintain Primary Cultures of Normal and Malignant Human Prostatic Epithelial Cells In Vivo

Our objective was to develop a realistic preclinical model of prostate cancer by developing methodology that supports the survival, growth and differentiation of primary cultures of prostate cells in mice. Use of a novel substrate, OptiCell membranes, for implantation,choice of the renal capsule for implantation, and selection of stem-like cells for implantation did not resolve the unwanted development of squamous differentiation. Therefore, we investigated the implantation of precision-cut tissue sections. These tissue slices can be maintained in culture, and our initial results suggest that they also survive and maintain structure and function under the renal capsule. We will continue to develop tissue slices as a novel in vitro in vivo experimental model of prostate cancer.