Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 6, 2026
A Preclinical Murine Model of Hepatic Metastases
Published on: September 27, 2014
Dissecting metastasis using preclinical models and methods
Jess D Hebert1, Joel W Neal2,3, Monte M Winslow4,5,6
1Department of Genetics, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, USA.
Abstract:
Metastasis has long been understood to lead to the overwhelming majority of cancer-related deaths. However, our understanding of the metastatic process, and thus our ability to prevent or eliminate metastases, remains frustratingly limited. This is largely due to the complexity of metastasis, which is a multistep process that likely differs across cancer types and is greatly influenced by many aspects of the in vivo microenvironment. In this Review, we discuss the key variables to consider when designing assays to study metastasis: which source of metastatic cancer cells to use and where to introduce them into mice to address different questions of metastasis biology. We also examine methods that are being used to interrogate specific steps of the metastatic cascade in mouse models, as well as emerging techniques that may shed new light on previously inscrutable aspects of metastasis. Finally, we explore approaches for developing and using anti-metastatic therapies, and how mouse models can be used to test them.
Insights
Understanding cancer metastasis, a key cause of death, is limited. This review explores mouse models and methods to study metastasis and develop anti-metastatic therapies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cancer Biology
- Translational Research
Background:
- Metastasis is responsible for most cancer deaths, yet understanding of this complex, multistep process remains limited.
- The metastatic process is highly variable across cancer types and influenced by the in vivo microenvironment.
- Current knowledge gaps hinder the development of effective strategies to prevent or eliminate metastases.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review critical variables for designing metastasis research assays.
- To examine current and emerging methods for interrogating metastasis in mouse models.
- To explore approaches for developing and testing anti-metastatic therapies using mouse models.
Main Methods:
- Discussion of key variables in designing metastasis assays, including cell source and introduction site in mice.
- Examination of established methods for studying specific steps of the metastatic cascade in mouse models.
- Exploration of emerging techniques for investigating previously poorly understood aspects of metastasis.
Main Results:
- Identified critical considerations for selecting appropriate mouse models and experimental designs for metastasis research.
- Highlighted current methodologies and novel techniques for dissecting the metastatic cascade.
- Outlined strategies for the development and preclinical testing of anti-metastatic therapies.
Conclusions:
- Mouse models are essential for advancing our understanding of metastasis.
- Improved assay design and methodological approaches are crucial for studying metastasis.
- Further research using mouse models is vital for developing effective anti-metastatic treatments.
