Cancer Cell Line Xenograft Efficacy Studies

In Vivo Pharmacology Services at JAX performs contract efficacy studies with customer-supplied candidate oncology therapies in human tumor cell line-engrafted immunodeficient mice.

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We offer in vivo efficacy studies of candidate oncology therapies in xenograft tumor models using human tumor cell lines. Cancer cell lines are typically engrafted subcutaneously in immunocompromised mice such as nude or scid mice (mammary orthotopic implantation is also available). As a result of their decreased immune function, these mice are efficient hosts for in vivo growth and proliferation of tumor cell lines. 

Host options include:

  • nude (NU/J (002019) or J:NU (007850))
  • scid (NOD.CB17-Prkdcscid/J (001303 or CBySmn.CB17-Prkdcscid/J (001803))
  • NSG™ (NOD.Cg-Prkdcscid Il2rgtm1Wjl/SzJ (005557)).

We have experience with a range of common tumor cell lines and have the capability to use customer provided cancer cell lines for in vivo studies. 

Subcutaneous cancer cell line xenograft studies

A typical 5-arm study with 10 mice/arm includes:

  • Vehicle control arm
  • Reference compound arm
  • Three experimental therapeutic arms

Subcutaneously engrafted mice placed on study are grouped for synchronous tumor growth. Compound dosing can be administered through all common routes (i.v., p.o., i.p. and s.c.). Animals are monitored 2X weekly for body weights, clinical observations and tumor size (using digital calipers) once tumors become palpable.

Typical study duration is 60 days or until individual tumors reach a 2000 mm3 endpoint with 5 doses per mouse.