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Updated: Sep 26, 2025
Implantation and Monitoring by PET/CT of an Orthotopic Model of Human Pleural Mesothelioma in Athymic Mice
Published on: December 21, 2019
How Our Continuing Studies of the Pre-clinical Inbred Mouse Models of Mesothelioma Have Influenced the Development of
Bruce W S Robinson1,2, Alec J Redwood2,3, Jenette Creaney2,3
1Medicine, University of Western Australia, Perth, WA, Australia.
Abstract:
Asbestos-induced preclinical mouse models of mesothelioma produce tumors that are very similar to those that develop in humans and thus represent an ideal platform to study this rare, universally fatal tumor type. Our team and a number of other research groups have established such models as a stepping stone to new treatments, including chemotherapy, immunotherapy and other approaches that have been/are being translated into clinical trials. In some cases this work has led to changes in mesothelioma treatment practice and over the last 30 years these models and studies have led to trials which have improved the response rate in mesothelioma from less than 10% to over 50%. Mouse models have had a vital role in that improvement and will continue to play a key role in the future success of mesothelioma immunotherapy. In this review we focus only on these original inbred mouse models, the large number of preclinical studies conducted using them and their contribution to current and future clinical therapy for mesothelioma.
Insights
Preclinical mouse models of mesothelioma closely mimic human tumors, aiding new treatment development. These models have significantly improved mesothelioma treatment response rates, particularly in immunotherapy.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Translational Research
- Animal Models
Background:
- Mesothelioma is a rare, fatal cancer with limited treatment options.
- Asbestos-induced mouse models closely replicate human mesothelioma tumors.
- These models are crucial for preclinical research and therapeutic development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of inbred mouse models in mesothelioma research.
- To highlight the contribution of preclinical studies using these models to clinical advancements.
- To emphasize their importance in developing novel mesothelioma therapies, especially immunotherapy.
Main Methods:
- Focus on original inbred mouse models of asbestos-induced mesothelioma.
- Review of preclinical studies conducted using these established mouse models.
- Analysis of the translation of findings from mouse models to human clinical trials.
Main Results:
- Mouse models have been instrumental in developing and testing new mesothelioma treatments.
- Preclinical research has led to a significant increase in mesothelioma treatment response rates (from <10% to >50%).
- These models have facilitated the advancement of chemotherapy and immunotherapy into clinical trials.
Conclusions:
- Inbred mouse models are vital platforms for studying mesothelioma and developing effective treatments.
- The success of these models has directly contributed to improved clinical outcomes for mesothelioma patients.
- Mouse models will continue to be essential for future progress in mesothelioma immunotherapy.
