The latest in vitro models for novel uveal melanoma drug discovery: how effective are they and what needs to be done?

While traditional cell lines have provided an important foundation for UM research, emerging spheroid and patient-derived organoid models may more accurately represent in vivo tumor behavior and the tumor microenvironment. Pairing these 3D models with co-culture techniques could dramatically improve the representativeness of UM models. Researchers should consider testing promising therapeutics on a panel of models representing different UM subtypes, with particular attention to high-risk UM, such as those with BAP1 loss.