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A Systematic Approach to Preclinical Trials in Metastatic Breast Cancer
O M Rashid1, D Maurente2, K Takabe3
1Holy Cross Hospital Michael and Dianne Bienes Comprehensive Cancer Center, 4725 North Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33308,USA; Massachusetts General Hospital, 55 Fruit St, Boston, MA 02114, USA; University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, 1600 NW 10th Ave, Miami, FL 33136, USA.
Abstract:
The process of developing new agents for therapy against breast cancer is inefficient and relies on animal models to screen for efficacy for preclinical studies. However, there has been limited validation of these models, despite the increasing costs in the rapidly growing era of personalized medicine and targeted therapy. Recently, there have been multiple studies which have critically evaluated animal models for breast cancer drug discovery. We recently reviewed the transgenic, xenograft, and syngeneic murine breast cancer models, the ectopic, orthotopic and intravenous methods of cell implantation, tumor gene expression profiles, as well as the ethics of animal experimentation, and we provide important information for investigators in this challenging field. Because of the complexities of treating breast cancer and the increasing costs of developing new agents, the choice of the appropriate murine model must carefully consider each model available, including the tumor gene expression profile. Such a critical approach to the in vivo portion of drug development will further increase the efficiency of breast cancer drug research and development.
Insights
Developing new breast cancer therapies is costly and inefficient. Critically evaluating murine models, including gene expression, is crucial for effective preclinical drug development.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Pharmacology
- Translational Medicine
Background:
- Breast cancer drug development relies heavily on animal models for preclinical efficacy screening.
- The validation of these models is often limited, increasing costs in personalized medicine and targeted therapy.
- There is a growing need for critical evaluation of animal models used in breast cancer drug discovery.
Purpose of the Study:
- To critically review and provide essential information on murine breast cancer models for investigators.
- To guide the selection of appropriate animal models based on tumor gene expression profiles.
- To enhance the efficiency of breast cancer drug research and development.
Main Methods:
- Review of transgenic, xenograft, and syngeneic murine breast cancer models.
- Evaluation of ectopic, orthotopic, and intravenous cell implantation techniques.
- Analysis of tumor gene expression profiles and ethical considerations in animal experimentation.
Main Results:
- Multiple studies critically evaluate animal models for breast cancer drug discovery.
- Information is provided on various murine models, implantation methods, and gene expression.
- Ethical considerations of animal experimentation are discussed.
Conclusions:
- The selection of appropriate murine models, considering tumor gene expression, is vital for efficient breast cancer drug development.
- A critical approach to *in vivo* studies will improve the efficiency of preclinical research.
- Enhanced understanding and selection of models are necessary for advancing breast cancer therapy.
