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Updated: Dec 31, 2025

Establishment and Characterization of Patient-Derived Xenograft Models of Anaplastic Thyroid Carcinoma and Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Published on: June 2, 2023
Patient-derived xenograft models-the future of personalised cancer treatment
Jenna Bhimani1, Katie Ball2, Justin Stebbing2,3
1Department of Oncology, Charing Cross Hospital, Imperial College and Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, Fulham Palace Road, London, W6 8RF, UK. j.bhimani@nhs.net.
Abstract:
For many tumours there is a lack of randomised data from which we can guide systemic treatments. Although gene expression profiling along with proteomics has led to advances in diagnosis, classification and prognosis, our ability to target many cancers has been further limited due to a lack of therapeutic options. The use of patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models in the setting of a rare malignancy is discussed here by Kamili et al, with the successful establishment of new model systems.
Insights
Patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models are crucial for rare cancer research due to limited treatment data. This study successfully established new PDX models, advancing therapeutic options for rare malignancies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Translational Research
- Cancer Modeling
Background:
- Limited randomized data hinders systemic treatment guidance for many tumors.
- Advances in gene expression profiling and proteomics improve cancer diagnosis, classification, and prognosis.
- Therapeutic options for many cancers remain limited, despite diagnostic progress.
Discussion:
- The study discusses the utility of patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models for rare malignancies.
- Successful establishment of new PDX model systems is highlighted.
- PDX models offer a viable platform for studying rare cancers and testing therapies.
Key Insights:
- Patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models are essential for advancing research in rare cancers.
- The successful establishment of novel PDX models provides valuable tools for the scientific community.
- These models can bridge the gap in understanding and treating rare tumor types.
Outlook:
- Further development and utilization of PDX models are expected to accelerate the discovery of targeted therapies.
- PDX models hold promise for improving treatment strategies and patient outcomes in rare malignancies.
- Continued research using PDX models will be critical for overcoming therapeutic challenges in oncology.

