Establishment of novel patient-derived preclinical models for neuroendocrine tumors

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Introduction: Neuroendocrine tumors (NETs) arise in different organs and are heterogeneous with limited treatment options. Preclinical models established from patient tumor specimens enable precision oncology by assessing the response to various drug treatments.

Aim(s): Herein, we aim to establish patient-derived organoids (PDOs) and xenografts (PDXs) for NETs.

Materials and methods: To establish PDOs, fresh surgical surplus NET tissue sample is disassociated in single-cell suspension, and the cells are seated in 384-well plates coated with extracellular matrix. We use non-toxic dyes and confocal imaging to follow the PDOs’ progression and morphological characteristics. To establish NET patient-derived xenograft ex-ovo (PDXovo) models, we engraft small tumor tissue fragments into the chorioallantoic membrane of chicken embryos. High-frequency ultrasound imaging was used to measure changes in tumor volume and vascularity.

Conference:

Presenting Author: Michael I

Authors: Kulathunga N, Wang Z, Li B, Li Y, Tsui H,

Keywords: preclinical models, patient-derived organoids, patient-derived xenografts, drug screening,