Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 14, 2026
A Melanoma Patient-Derived Xenograft Model
Published on: May 20, 2019
Care and monitoring of a mouse model of melanoma
1National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, US National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, USA. narverh@ninds.nih.gov
Abstract:
Melanoma is a devastating form of skin cancer in humans that is rising in incidence. Animal models of melanoma continue to be instrumental for understanding the disease and for developing and testing therapies. A novel line of melanoma-bearing mice developed at the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke is monitored and cared for by the Animal Health Care Section. Although these mice develop heavy tumor burdens, they show few signs of pain or distress and seem to have high levels of physiologic fitness. The author discusses the monitoring and care of these mice, advocating early flagging and frequent monitoring of melanoma-bearing mice. In the care of melanoma-bearing mice, an emphasis should be placed on evaluating the whole animal and considering new endpoints rather than relying on historically accepted guidelines for maximum tumor size and weight, which may be inappropriate for some mice.
Insights
Animal models are crucial for melanoma research. This study highlights the need for comprehensive monitoring of melanoma-bearing mice, focusing on overall health rather than just tumor size.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Animal Models
- Dermatology
Background:
- Melanoma incidence is increasing globally.
- Animal models are vital for cancer research and therapy development.
- A novel melanoma mouse model is utilized for study.
Purpose of the Study:
- To discuss the monitoring and care protocols for a novel line of melanoma-bearing mice.
- To advocate for updated endpoints in assessing the well-being of these animal models.
- To emphasize a holistic approach to animal welfare in melanoma research.
Main Methods:
- Monitoring and care of melanoma-bearing mice by the Animal Health Care Section.
- Observation of tumor burden, signs of pain or distress, and overall physiologic fitness.
- Evaluation of the whole animal, considering novel endpoints beyond traditional tumor size and weight.
Main Results:
- Melanoma-bearing mice developed significant tumor burdens.
- These mice exhibited minimal signs of pain or distress.
- The animals maintained a high level of physiologic fitness despite heavy tumor loads.
Conclusions:
- Current guidelines for maximum tumor size and weight may be insufficient for assessing melanoma-bearing mouse welfare.
- Early flagging and frequent monitoring are essential for these models.
- A comprehensive, whole-animal evaluation is recommended for ethical and effective animal care in melanoma research.
