Xenograft models for normal and malignant stem cells

The model systems available for studying human hematopoiesis, malignant hematopoiesis, and hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) function in vivo have improved dramatically over the last decade, primarily due to improvements in xenograft mouse strains. Several recent reviews have focused on the historic development of immunodeficient mice over the last 2 decades, as well as their use in understanding human HSC and leukemia stem cell (LSC) biology and function in the context of a humanized mouse. However, in the intervening time since these reviews, a number of new mouse models, technical approaches, and scientific advances have been made. In this review, we update the reader on the newest and best models and approaches available for studying human malignant and normal HSCs in immunodeficient mice, including newly developed mice for use in chemotherapy testing and improved techniques for humanizing mice without laborious purification of HSC. We also review some relevant scientific findings from xenograft studies and highlight the continued limitations that confront researchers working with human HSC and LSC in vivo.