University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

Optimizing a 3D brain microvascular model to study radiation damage

Ivanova, Yoanna

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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/121276

Description

Title
Optimizing a 3D brain microvascular model to study radiation damage
Author(s)
Ivanova, Yoanna
Issue Date
2023-07-19
Director of Research (if dissertation) or Advisor (if thesis)
Harley, Brendan AC
Department of Study
Bioengineering
Discipline
Bioengineering
Degree Granting Institution
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Degree Name
M.S.
Degree Level
Thesis
Keyword(s)
  • Glioblastoma
  • Tumor Microenvironment, Radiation
  • Vasculature
  • Hydrogel
  • Perivascular Niche
Abstract
Glioblastoma (GBM) is a highly aggressive brain cancer characterized by diffuse metastasis at the tumor margins leading to high rates of recurrence. Radiation therapy, a standard component of current treatment, offers potential for improved patient outcomes. However, radiation therapy has opposing effects, capable of eradicating disease while also damaging normal tissue; this damage can lead to decreased quality of life and can foster a tumor-supportive microenvironment. The perivascular niche (PVN) is a microenvironment of particular interest. The PVN plays a vital role in regulating the glioblastoma stem cell population, treatment resistance, and serves as a site for cancer recurrence and migration. Understanding the impact of radiation on the PVN can better inform radiation schemes and improve our understanding of GBM recurrence. Here we optimize a previously developed three-dimensional in vitro model of the brain perivascular niche to investigate the impact of radiation dosage and delivery. We evaluated our hydrogel formulation to allow for stability, vessel growth, and network visualization. Importantly, we demonstrate that radiation effects on vessel structure can be measured in our model. This suggests our platform can provide useful insights on the effects of radiation on a short time scale relative to in vivo experiments.
Graduation Semester
2023-08
Type of Resource
Thesis
Copyright and License Information
Copyright 2023 Yoanna Ivanova

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