When medics want to know how effective an anti-tumor agent is, they test it on cancer cells. However, in an organism cancer cells are never alone, but in the form of a dense growth – a tumor. Russian scientists created a new model of a tumor for more reliable tests of new cancer treatment.
      
      Researchers mixed individual cells with polymer solution and formed a transparent capsule. In this capsule cells feel well – they take everything they need from outside, since polymer shell allows various substances to get to cells. Shell’s permeability can vary by means of changing wall thickness. Capsules are about 0.5 mm in diameter.
      
      Such small tumor is very convenient for studying, observing its growth or degradation and testing new therapy or anti-tumor agents. Authors currently use this model for studying photodynamic therapy – a promising technique for fighting cancer.
      
      Artificial tumors will save many laboratory animals from awful death of cancer.
      
      Source: Science News