Horizon Discovery Group Launches Collection of Highly Characterized Patient-Derived Xenograft Models of Breast Cancer

Horizon Discovery Group has launched its Patient-Derived Xenograft (PDX) models of breast cancer under its SAGE Labs brand. The new panel is the largest available collection of highly characterised PDX models, and is licensed from Washington University.
 

The collection comprises a broad range of PDX lines, which allow the study of human tumours in an in vivo model system. PDX models are a key tool in the development of personalised medicines. The lines accurately model real patient tumours, enabling researchers to discover important genetic differences, develop biomarkers to distinguish them, and ultimately develop patient-specific therapies.
 

The new collection includes ten triple negative lines, as well as several ER+ (estrogen receptor positive) lines. Whole genome sequencing has been performed on the originating tumours, early and late passages of PDX, as well as metastases, demonstrating striking similarity and faithful modeling of the original tumour, with all contaminating mouse signal removed. Using SAGE Labs’ PDXplorer, customers can access a wealth of data on the PDX models, including comprehensive patient histories, estradiol responsiveness, RNAseq profiles, DNA microarrays, and phosphoprotein profiles, and can handpick the models that best support their research. 
 

Dr David Smoller, Chief Business Officer, Horizon, commented: “Patient-derived xenografts are highly translational and relevant models of human cancers, and have been invaluable tools for oncology research. However, their utility has previously been somewhat limited by incomplete characterisation. SAGE Labs’ new collection of PDX breast cancer models, sourced from the labs of Drs Matt Ellis and Shunqiang Li at Washington University, is highly characterised, unlocking their full potential and making them an exciting addition to Horizon’s offering.”