Abstract: The three-dimensional cell model cultures different types of cells in vitro. By means of special materials or carriers, the cells can grow, migrate and differentiate in a three-dimensional environment. The three-dimensional cell model provides the cells with an in vitro environment that is close to in vivo, making the gene expression and signal exchange of the cells more physiologically relevant. This paper starts with the concept and classification of three-dimensional cell model, then summarizes the applications and progresses of three-dimensional cell model in tumor micro-environment, cancer metastasis and anti-tumor drug development in recent years. Based on the current shortcomings of the three-dimensional cell model, this paper presents the assumptions and prospects for the application of three-dimensional cell model in tumor therapy.