Colorectal cancer murine models: Initiation to metastasis

• Published in: Cancer letters 2024-04, Vol.587, p.216704, Article 216704
• Main Authors: Pothuraju, Ramesh, Khan, Imran, Jain, Maneesh, Bouvet, Michael, Malafa, Mokenge, Roy, Hemant K., Kumar, Sushil, Batra, Surinder K.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Chemically induced mouse models; Colorectal cancer; Genetically engineered mouse models; Patient-derived xenograft models; Xenograft models
• ISSN: 0304-3835; 1872-7980; 1872-7980
• DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2024.216704

Despite significant advancements in prevention and treatment, colorectal cancer (CRC) remains the third leading cause of cancer-related deaths. Animal models, including xenografts, syngeneic, and genetically engineered, have emerged as indispensable tools in cancer research. These models offer a valuable platform to address critical questions regarding molecular pathogenesis and test therapeutic interventions before moving on to clinical trials. Advancements in CRC animal models have also facilitated the advent of personalized and precision medicine. Patient-derived xenografts and genetically engineered mice that mirror features of human tumors allow for tailoring treatments to specific CRC subtypes, improving treatment outcomes and quality of life. To overcome the limitations of individual model systems, recent studies have employed a multi-modal approach, combining different animal models, 3D organoids, and in vitro studies. This integrative approach provides a comprehensive understanding of CRC biology, including the tumor microenvironment and therapeutic responses, driving the development of more effective and personalized therapeutic interventions. This review discusses the animal models used for CRC research, including recent advancements and limitations of these animal models. •Contribution of murine models in understanding the pathophysiology of colorectal cancer.•Importance of autochthonous murine models in comprehending the role of tumor microenvironment in colorectal cancer.•Describe the utility of murine models for preclinical evaluation of novel therapeutic regimens for colorectal cancer.