Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 26, 2026
11:31
Using Micro-computed Tomography for the Assessment of Tumor Development and Follow-up of Response to Treatment in a Mouse Model of Lung Cancer
Published on: May 20, 2016
A quantitative volumetric micro-computed tomography method to analyze lung tumors in genetically engineered mouse
Brian B Haines1, Kimberly A Bettano, Melissa Chenard
1Oncology Pharmacology, Merck & Co., Inc., Boston, MA 02115, USA.
Neoplasia (New York, N.Y.)
|December 25, 2008
Summary
A new micro-CT imaging method quantifies lung tumor burden in mouse models. This technique enables better monitoring of tumor growth and drug response, advancing oncology drug discovery.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Medical Imaging
- Genetics
Background:
- Genetically engineered mouse models (K-ras(LSL-G12D) and K-ras(LSL-G12D)/p53(LSL-R270H)) are crucial for studying lung cancer in vivo.
- Tumor heterogeneity and complexity in these models challenge in vivo monitoring and drug discovery applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a novel analytical method for quantitatively measuring total lung tumor burden in live animals.
- To assess the kinetics of tumor development and response to targeted therapy in K-ras and K-ras/p53 mouse models.
Main Methods:
- Utilized micro-computed tomography (micro-CT) imaging for quantitative measurement of lung tumor burden.
- Applied the developed methodology to study tumor development kinetics and drug response in genetically engineered mouse models.
Main Results:
- Lung tumors developed in a time- and dose-dependent manner in both K-ras and K-ras/p53 models.
- Compound K-ras(LSL-G12D)/p53(LSL-R270H) mice exhibited faster and more robust tumor development than single K-ras(LSL-G12D) mice.
- Erlotinib treatment significantly inhibited tumor growth in K-ras(LSL-G12D)/p53(LSL-R270H) mice.
Conclusions:
- The novel micro-CT imaging technique effectively monitors tumor progression and treatment response in vivo.
- This methodology enhances the utility of genetically engineered mouse models for oncology drug discovery and development.
