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Updated: May 22, 2025

Fluorescence Molecular Tomography for In Vivo Imaging of Glioblastoma Xenografts
Published on: April 26, 2018
Fluorescence-Guided Resection of GL261 Red-FLuc and TRP-mCherry-FLuc Mouse Glioblastoma Tumors
Louis T Rodgers1, Bryan J Maloney1, Anika M S Hartz2,3
1Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, College of Pharmacy, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY 40536, USA.
Abstract:
Background: Most preclinical studies on glioblastoma (GBM) fail to provide translational utility in the clinic. Fluorescence-guided surgery using 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) improves tumor resection, disease prognosis, and, thus, patient outcomes. Given the critical role of surgery in managing recurrent GBM, it is essential to incorporate surgical elements into preclinical models to accurately reflect clinical scenarios and enhance translational success. However, existing protocols for 5-ALA-guided resection in preclinical models are limited and often lack clinical relevance. Methods: To address this gap, we developed a novel protocol for the 5-ALA-guided resection in two mouse GBM models: TRP-mCherry-FLuc and GL261 Red-FLuc. Results: The resection of TRP-mCherry-FLuc tumors significantly extended survival and mitigated weight loss compared to controls. Similarly, GL261 Red-FLuc tumor resection increased survival, reduced body weight loss, and slowed tumor progression. Conclusions: This study presents a clinically relevant protocol for 5-ALA-guided resection in preclinical GBM models, providing a platform for future research to integrate adjuvant therapies and enhance their potential translation into clinical practice.
Insights
This study introduces a new protocol for 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) guided resection in preclinical glioblastoma (GBM) models. This clinically relevant method enhances survival and slows tumor progression in mice.
Area of Science:
- Neuro-oncology
- Surgical Oncology
- Preclinical Cancer Models
Background:
- Glioblastoma (GBM) preclinical studies often lack clinical translation.
- 5-aminolevulinic acid (5-ALA) fluorescence-guided surgery improves GBM resection and patient outcomes.
- Preclinical models need improved surgical elements for clinical relevance, especially for recurrent GBM.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a novel, clinically relevant protocol for 5-ALA-guided resection in preclinical GBM models.
- To assess the efficacy of this protocol in improving survival and disease progression in mouse models.
- To provide a platform for future research integrating adjuvant therapies for GBM.
Main Methods:
- Development of a novel protocol for 5-ALA-guided resection.
- Application of the protocol in two distinct mouse GBM models: TRP-mCherry-FLuc and GL261 Red-FLuc.
- Evaluation of survival rates, weight loss, and tumor progression post-resection.
Main Results:
- 5-ALA-guided resection significantly extended survival in both TRP-mCherry-FLuc and GL261 Red-FLuc GBM mouse models.
- Resection mitigated weight loss and slowed tumor progression in treated mice compared to controls.
- The protocol demonstrated feasibility and efficacy in preclinical settings.
Conclusions:
- A clinically relevant protocol for 5-ALA-guided resection in preclinical GBM models was successfully established.
- This protocol serves as a valuable platform for testing novel therapeutic strategies.
- The findings support the integration of improved surgical techniques in preclinical research to enhance GBM treatment translation.

