Multidrug resistance and cancer recurrence remain critical challenges in ovarian cancer therapy. To address these issues through innovative, practice based biomedical education, this study integrates simulation-based learning using ovarian cancer cell lines to explore the therapeutic potential of Pien Tze Huang (PZH), a traditional Chinese medicine. Building on prior research into high-grade serous ovarian cancer, we focused on endometrioid ovarian carcinoma using cisplatin-sensitive (A2780s) and cisplatin-resistant (A2780cp) cell lines. Students engaged in professional laboratory simulations including colony formation to assess PZH’s time- and dose-dependent effects on cell proliferation and migration. Immunohistochemistry using PD-L1 antibody (Dako 22c3) and Leica BOND detection system enabled learners to investigate molecular expression patterns without ethical or safety concerns associated with human tissue. Results revealed enhanced collateral sensitivity in resistant cells and reduced IC50 values following prolonged PZH exposure, suggesting modulation of cell cycle and PD-L1 expression. This innovative simulation-based approach offers a safe, ethical, and trend-forward model for biomedical science education, empowering students with hands-on experience in cancer pharmacology and molecular diagnostics. It promotes critical thinking, technical proficiency, and professional readiness in a controlled, reproducible environment, bridging the gap between theoretical knowledge and clinical application.

Authors:
Chun Keung Wong, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong
Yhon Lam, Hong Kong Metropolitan University, Hong Kong
Tsz Wing Lung, Hospital Authority, Hong Kong
Wing Lam Mak, HealthBaby Biotech (Hong Kong) Co., Ltd., Hong Kong

About the Presenter(s)
Mr. Wong is currently a Senior Lecturer in the School of Nursing and Health Sciences at the Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU).

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