The Potential Role of 3D In Vitro Acute Myeloid Leukemia Culture Models in Understanding Drug Resistance in Leukemia Stem Cells

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Despite advancements in the treatment of hematological malignancies, disease relapse is still a major concern in the management of acute myeloid leukemia (AML). It is believed that chemotherapeutic resistance in leukemic stem cells is the driving factor behind disease relapse. The role of in vitro 3D models in studying the mechanisms of chemotherapeutic drug resistance in leukemic stem cells is not well-researched. Herein, we review the recent advancements in using 3D in vitro models in studying AML. In addition, we describe their role as potential platforms for understanding mechanisms of resistance and relapse in AML and in identifying and testing therapeutic modalities. ABSTRACT: The complexity of the bone marrow (BM) microenvironment makes studying hematological malignancies in vitro a challenging task. Three-dimensional cell cultures are being actively studied, particularly due to their ability to serve as a bridge of the gap between 2D cultures and animal models. The role of 3D in vitro models in studying the mechanisms of chemotherapeutic resistance and leukemia stem cells (LSCs) in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is not well-reviewed. We present an overview of 3D cell models used for studying AML, emphasizing the recent advancements in microenvironment modeling, chemotherapy testing, and resistance.