Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 25, 2026

A Genetically Engineered Mouse Model of Sporadic Colorectal Cancer
Published on: July 6, 2017
Deciphering the universe of genetic context-dependencies using mouse models of cancer
Chiara Falcomatà1, Stefanie Bärthel1, Günter Schneider2
1Division of Translational Cancer Research, German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ), Im Neuenheimer Feld 280, 69120 Heidelberg, Germany; German Cancer Consortium (DKTK), Partner Site Munich, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Ismaningerstr. 22, 81675 München, Germany; Institute of Translational Cancer Research and Experimental Cancer Therapy, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technische Universität München, Ismaningerstr. 22, 81675 München, Germany.
Abstract:
Molecular profiling of cancer patients and modelling of human cancer in mice revealed cell type and tissue-specific differences in tumor development and evolution. However, the context-dependent determinants of cancer remain poorly understood. A systematic characterization of the biological underpinnings of context-specificity will, therefore, be pivotal to design more effective therapies. In this review article, we focus on recent advances on molecular, cellular and microenvironmental aspects of context-dependency. We highlight new strategies to study this phenomenon in tumorigenesis and tumor evolution. Notably, we elucidate tissue and cell type-specific signaling cues as well as tumor microenvironment niches, using novel next-generation dual and triple recombinase-based mouse models of cancer.
Related Concept Videos
Mouse Models of Cancer Study
The development of transgenic, knockout, and knock-in mice has led to an exponential increase in their use as model organisms in research,...
Self Within Cultural Contexts
Impact of Social Context on Individuals
Genetics of Speciation
Animal Mitochondrial Genetics
Frequency-dependent Selection

