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Published on: February 24, 2023
Local irradiation of patient-derived tumors in immunodeficient mice
Amber P van der Zalm1, Sanne Bootsma1, Hans M Rodermond2
1Amsterdam UMC Location University of Amsterdam, Center for Experimental and Molecular Medicine, Laboratory of Experimental Oncology and Radiobiology, Meibergdreef 9, 1105AZ Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Oncode Institute, Amsterdam, the Netherlands; Cancer Center Amsterdam, Cancer Biology, De Boelelaan 1118, 1081HV Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
Abstract:
Severe combined immunodeficient mice are typically used for xenografting experiments and show reliable tumor engraftment; however, their Prkdscid mutation renders them highly sensitive to irradiation. Here, we describe a protocol that allows safe local irradiation of tumor xenografts in immunodeficient mice. We detail the steps for the establishment and handling of patient-derived cancer cultures, subcutaneous injection of cancer cells on the mouse hind limb, localized irradiation in mice, tumor monitoring, and tumor characterization via histological and immunohistochemical assessment. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Dings et al. (2022).1.
Insights
This study presents a safe protocol for localized irradiation of tumor xenografts in immunodeficient mice, addressing sensitivity issues in Prkdscid mice. The method enables precise tumor treatment and subsequent characterization for research purposes.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Animal Models
Background:
- Severe combined immunodeficient (SCID) mice are crucial for xenograft studies but are sensitive to irradiation due to the Prkdscid mutation.
- Existing protocols lack safe methods for localized tumor irradiation in these sensitive mice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and describe a protocol for safe, localized irradiation of tumor xenografts in immunodeficient mice.
- To enable precise therapeutic intervention and subsequent analysis of tumor responses in vivo.
Main Methods:
- Establishment and handling of patient-derived cancer cultures.
- Subcutaneous injection of cancer cells into the hind limb of immunodeficient mice.
- Performance of localized irradiation on established tumor xenografts.
- Monitoring of tumor growth and characterization using histological and immunohistochemical analyses.
Main Results:
- The protocol allows for safe and effective localized irradiation of tumor xenografts in Prkdscid mice.
- Detailed steps are provided for cancer cell handling, injection, irradiation, and post-treatment analysis.
- The method facilitates reliable tumor engraftment and subsequent investigation.
Conclusions:
- This protocol provides a valuable tool for researchers studying tumor xenografts in irradiation-sensitive immunodeficient mouse models.
- It enables precise investigation of localized radiation effects on cancer growth and biology.
- The described methodology supports advancements in preclinical cancer research.
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