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Updated: May 20, 2026

Establishment of a Human Multiple Myeloma Xenograft Model in the Chicken to Study Tumor Growth, Invasion and Angiogenesis
Published on: May 1, 2015
Model of translational cancer research in multiple myeloma
Hiroshi Yasui1, Tadao Ishida, Reo Maruyama
1First Department of Internal Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan; Department of Regional Health Care and Medicine, Sapporo Medical University, Sapporo, Japan. hiroyasui-gi@umin.ac.jp
Abstract:
Recently, intensive laboratory and preclinical studies have identified and validated therapeutic molecular targets in multiple myeloma (MM). The introduction of novel agents such as the proteasome inhibitor bortezomib and the immunomodulatory drugs thalidomide and lenalidomide, which were rapidly translated from preclinical studies at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute into clinical trials, has changed the treatment paradigm and markedly extended overall survival; MM has therefore become a remarkable example of translational cancer research in new drug development. In this article, with the aim of determining the key factors underlying success in translational research, we focus on our studies of MM at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute as well as at our institutes. The identification of these key factors will help to promote translational cancer research not only in MM but also in other hematologic malignancies and solid tumors, to develop novel therapies, to overcome drug resistance, and to thereby improve the prognosis of cancer patients.
Insights
Translational research in multiple myeloma (MM) has led to new therapies like bortezomib, significantly improving patient survival. Identifying key success factors in this process can advance novel cancer drug development for better patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Translational Cancer Research
- Drug Development
Background:
- Multiple myeloma (MM) treatment has been revolutionized by novel agents developed through intensive laboratory and preclinical studies.
- Drugs like bortezomib and immunomodulatory agents (thalidomide, lenalidomide) exemplify successful translation from research to clinical practice, extending patient survival.
- MM serves as a model for successful translational cancer research and new drug development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify key factors driving success in translational research for multiple myeloma (MM).
- To leverage insights from MM translational research to promote advancements in other hematologic malignancies and solid tumors.
- To guide the development of novel therapies and overcome drug resistance in cancer treatment.
Main Methods:
- Review of laboratory and preclinical studies identifying therapeutic molecular targets in MM.
- Analysis of the translation process of novel agents from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute preclinical studies to clinical trials.
- Focus on specific MM studies conducted at Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and collaborating institutes.
Main Results:
- Novel agents (bortezomib, thalidomide, lenalidomide) have significantly changed the MM treatment paradigm.
- Successful translation of preclinical findings into clinical practice has markedly extended overall survival in MM patients.
- MM research highlights the critical role of targeted therapies in improving cancer treatment outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Identifying key factors in MM translational research can accelerate the development of novel therapies for various cancers.
- Understanding successful translational pathways is crucial for overcoming drug resistance and improving cancer patient prognosis.
- The success in MM underscores the potential of translational research to transform cancer care across different malignancies.
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