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Updated: Jul 6, 2026
Bioluminescence Imaging of an Immunocompetent Animal Model for Glioblastoma
Published on: January 15, 2016
A novel rat model for glioblastoma multiforme using a bioluminescent F98 cell line
M J Bryant1, T L Chuah, J Luff
1Radiation Biology and Oncology Unit, Queensland Institute of Medical Research, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia.
Abstract:
In experimental neuro-oncology there remains a need for animal models that can be used to assess the efficacy of new and innovative treatment methodologies for glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). Rat models have remained the mainstay of neuro-oncology research for over 30 years; however, despite extensive experimentation, there is no one rat model that truly reflects the features of human tumours. We have developed a novel rat brain tumour model that closely resembles human GBM in biological behaviour and that utilizes bioluminescence imaging (BLI) to follow day-to-day in vivo progress of the tumour. F98 glioma cells were transfected with the firefly luciferase gene and injected orthotopically into the brains of 24 rats. Weekly BLI after subcutaneous injection of luciferin allowed for in vivo monitoring of the progress of the brain tumours. Euthanasia and histological analysis of the rodent brains at varying stages post-implantation, allowed for statistically significant correlation between tumour size and luminescence (p=0.002). The utility of this model is readily apparent, allowing us a way of examining the effects of new and novel therapeutics in these rats.
Insights
Researchers developed a novel rat brain tumor model for glioblastoma multiforme (GBM). This bioluminescence imaging model accurately tracks tumor growth, aiding in the evaluation of new glioblastoma treatments.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Biomedical Engineering
- Animal Models
Background:
- Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) research requires accurate animal models for therapeutic development.
- Existing rat models often fail to fully replicate human GBM characteristics.
- There is a persistent need for improved preclinical models in neuro-oncology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a novel rat brain tumor model for glioblastoma.
- To utilize bioluminescence imaging (BLI) for real-time monitoring of tumor progression.
- To establish a reliable model for assessing the efficacy of novel GBM therapeutics.
Main Methods:
- Orthotopic implantation of firefly luciferase-transfected F98 glioma cells into rat brains (n=24).
- Weekly bioluminescence imaging (BLI) following luciferin administration for in vivo tumor monitoring.
- Histological analysis and correlation of luminescence with tumor size.
Main Results:
- A statistically significant correlation was found between tumor size and luminescence (p=0.002).
- The novel model closely mimics the biological behavior of human GBM.
- BLI provided effective day-to-day monitoring of in vivo tumor progression.
Conclusions:
- This novel rat brain tumor model offers a valuable tool for experimental neuro-oncology.
- The model's ability to track tumor growth via BLI facilitates the assessment of new glioblastoma treatments.
- This approach enhances the preclinical evaluation of therapeutic strategies for GBM.
