@article{10.37349/ebmx.2025.101346,
abstract = {Modeling cancer cell invasion requires physiologically relevant systems, yet traditional 2D/3D assays and animal models fail to capture the biochemical and mechanical complexity of the human extracellular matrix (ECM). The human amniotic membrane (AM) is a clinically approved, abundant, and immunologically privileged tissue with a rich ECM composition and favorable mechanical properties. Despite its extensive use in regenerative medicine, its potential as a cancer invasion scaffold remains underexplored. We propose repurposing decellularized AM (dAM) as a human-derived ECM platform to study tumor invasion. dAM retains structural proteins, growth factor reservoirs, and stiffness gradients that influence epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT) and invasion pathways. Compared with conventional matrices, it offers improved biochemical fidelity and compatibility with patient-derived organoids. Key challenges, including donor variability, decellularization optimization, and reproducibility, are also addressed. dAM provides a non-invasive, scalable, and physiologically relevant tool for cancer invasion assays, drug screening, and patient-specific models. Its integration into oncology research may enhance translational relevance and accelerate personalized medicine.},
author = {Abou-Shanab, Ahmed M.},
doi = {10.37349/ebmx.2025.101346},
journal = {Exploration of BioMat-X},
elocation-id = {101346},
title = {Repurposing amniotic membrane as a native scaffold for cancer cell invasion studies},
url = {https://www.explorationpub.com/Journals/ebmx/Article/101346},
volume = {2},
year = {2025}
}