Horizon Discovery Group Launches Xenograft Models of Breast Cancer

Horizon Discovery Group plc 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 characterized PDX models, and is licensed from Washington University.

The collection comprises a broad range of PDX lines, which allow the study of human tumors in an in vivo model system. PDX models are a key tool in the development of personalized medicines. The lines accurately model real patient tumors, 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 tumors, early and late passages of PDX, as well as metastases, demonstrating striking similarity and faithful modeling of the original tumor, 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.  For more information, visit http://www.sageresearchlabs.com/pdx. 

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 characterization. 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 characterized, unlocking their full potential and making them an exciting addition to Horizon’s offering.”