Precision preclinical modeling to advance cancer treatment

David H Gutmann1, Jesse S Boehm2,3, Elinor K Karlsson2,4

  • 1Department of Neurology, Washington University, St Louis, MO 63110, United States.

Insights

Precision preclinical cancer models are crucial for understanding and treating the disease across multiple scales. This research outlines strategies for utilizing these models to advance cancer prevention and therapy.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Translational Cancer Research
  • Preclinical Modeling

Background:

  • Cancer treatment is evolving to address the entire disease continuum.
  • Preclinical models are essential for evaluating therapeutic mechanisms but face challenges in representing multi-scale malignancy.
  • The National Cancer Institute Oncology Models Forum convened to discuss precision preclinical models.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide updates on the application of precision preclinical cancer models.
  • To discuss the benefits and limitations of existing preclinical models.
  • To identify strategies for optimizing preclinical modeling to inform cancer prevention and treatment.

Main Methods:

  • Discussion and consensus-building among a multidisciplinary group of investigators.
  • Review of the continuum of preclinical models, including single cell, multicell, organoid, and in situ.
  • Development of a roadmap for model selection and preliminary recommendations for next-generation modeling.

Main Results:

  • Preclinical models offer valuable platforms for studying cancer across genetic, cellular, microenvironmental, and systemic scales.
  • A range of models, from single cell to in situ, are available and beneficial for clinical challenges.
  • Strategies for maximizing the utility of preclinical models were identified.

Conclusions:

  • The continuum of preclinical models represents a significant resource for addressing complex clinical challenges in cancer.
  • A roadmap and recommendations are provided for applying next-generation preclinical models in cancer intervention.
  • Optimized use of precision preclinical models can significantly inform future cancer prevention and treatment strategies.