The CAM Model-Q&A with Experts

Simple Summary The chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) model is an alternative in vivo test system for the study of hallmarks of cancer such as angiogenesis, tumor growth, immune escape, metastasis, and drug resistance. It is suitable for tumor cell lines and patient-derived xenografts (PDX), allowing for studying treatment protocols for cancer patients. The purpose of this review is to give answers to the most challenging questions around the CAM model, which is not only bridging in vitro and mouse in vivo studies but also has an interesting role in itself. The chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM), as an extraembryonic tissue layer generated by the fusion of the chorion with the vascularized allantoic membrane, is easily accessible for manipulation. Indeed, grafting tumor cells on the CAM lets xenografts/ovografts develop in a few days for further investigations. Thus, the CAM model represents an alternative test system that is a simple, fast, and low-cost tool to study tumor growth, drug response, or angiogenesis in vivo. Recently, a new era for the CAM model in immune-oncology-based drug discovery has been opened up. Although there are many advantages offering extraordinary and unique applications in cancer research, it has also disadvantages and limitations. This review will discuss the pros and cons with experts in the field.