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Updated: Dec 24, 2025
Studying Triple Negative Breast Cancer Using Orthotopic Breast Cancer Model
Published on: March 20, 2020
Studying Triple Negative Breast Cancer Using Orthotopic Breast Cancer Model
Robert Y S Cheng1, Nimit L Patel2, Timothy Back1
1Molecular Mechanism Section, Cancer and Inflammation Program, Center for Cancer Research, National Cancer Institute at Frederick.
Abstract:
Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive breast cancer subtype with limited therapeutic options. When compared to patients with less aggressive breast tumors, the 5-year survival rate of TNBC patients is 77% due to their characteristic drug-resistant phenotype and metastatic burden. Toward this end, murine models have been established aimed at identifying novel therapeutic strategies limiting TNBC tumor growth and metastatic spread. This work describes a practical guide for the TNBC orthotopic model where MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells suspended in a basement membrane matrix are implanted in the fourth mammary fat pad, which closely mimics the cancer cell behavior in humans. Measurement of tumors by caliper, lung metastasis assessment via in vivo and ex vivo imaging, and molecular detection are discussed. This model provides an excellent platform to study therapeutic efficacy and is especially suitable for the study of the interaction between the primary tumor and distal metastatic sites.
Insights
This study details a practical murine model for triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) research. It enables evaluation of new therapies targeting TNBC tumor growth and metastasis, improving survival outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Translational Research
- Animal Models
Background:
- Triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) is an aggressive subtype with poor prognosis and limited treatment options.
- TNBC is characterized by drug resistance and a high metastatic burden, contributing to a lower 5-year survival rate.
- Developing effective therapeutic strategies requires robust preclinical models that mimic human disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a practical guide for establishing and utilizing an orthotopic TNBC murine model.
- To provide a platform for evaluating therapeutic efficacy against TNBC tumor growth and metastasis.
- To facilitate the study of primary tumor and distal metastatic site interactions.
Main Methods:
- Implantation of MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cells in the fourth mammary fat pad of mice.
- Tumor volume measurement using calipers.
- Assessment of lung metastasis through in vivo and ex vivo imaging.
- Molecular detection methods for biological analysis.
Main Results:
- The described orthotopic model effectively mimics human TNBC cell behavior.
- The model allows for quantitative assessment of tumor growth and metastatic spread.
- It supports comprehensive molecular analysis to understand disease mechanisms.
Conclusions:
- This orthotopic TNBC model is a valuable preclinical tool for therapeutic development.
- It is suitable for investigating treatment efficacy and the primary-metastatic relationship.
- The model aids in identifying novel strategies to combat TNBC progression and improve patient survival.
