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3 minute read
Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) presents a remarkable challenge in oncology, characterized by the rapid growth of abnormal white blood cells. Developing clinically relevant research models is crucial for scientists to understand and treat AML effectively. These models can simulate the disease's complexity, providing insights into its progression and aiding in the development of targeted therapies.
The Importance of Heterogeneity in AML
One of the most significant hurdles in AML research is its heterogeneity. AML is not a homogeneous disease but a collection of diverse subtypes, each with its own genetic and molecular characteristics. Each patient's tumor is composed of several different malignant myeloid blast cell subpopulations that make each tumor unique. This diversity impacts clinical outcomes and treatment responses, making it essential for researchers to use models that accurately reflect this heterogeneity. By acknowledging and incorporating this variability, researchers can better predict patient responses to new treatments. (Read our blog "A Needle in a Haystack: Finding Rare AML Populations by Flow Cytometry")
Exploring AML Model Options
There are several AML models available, each offering unique insights and benefits:
Cell Line Models
Cell line models are often the first step in AML research. These models allow researchers to study specific cellular processes in a controlled environment. However, they do not capture the complexity of the disease due to their homogeneous nature. Despite this limitation, cell lines can be useful for initial screenings and mechanistic studies.
Patient-derived xenografts (PDX)
PDX models involve implanting patient tumor cells into immunocompromised mice and passaging the tumor into a series of mice to establish a stable model. Although these models are a better representation of the clinical disease compared to cell lines, due to passaging, PDX models do not retain the cellular and molecular heterogeneity typical of AML, limiting their clinical relevance.
Primary patient-derived models
Primary patient-derived models are created by culturing primary AML cells from patient samples for ex vivo use or implanting patient tumor cells into immunocompromised mice for in vivo studies. These models not only preserve the genetic characteristics of the original tumor but also, most importantly, retain the heterogenic nature of the patient’s disease, therefore providing a closer representation of AML in patients. This approach also preserves the tumor's microenvironment, allowing researchers to study how it interacts with treatments. However, they can be difficult to develop and maintain, limiting their widespread use. (Learn about our ex vivo hematological model offering)
Champions’ Medical Affair team continuously procures primary AML samples representative of the heterogeneity of the patient population, and our expert team develops and validates their growth in our experimental settings. We offer a large bank of primary, never passaged, AML models for ex vivo and in vivo use. Our oncology experts can help you achieve your research objectives from model selection and study planning to data analysis and result interpretation. (Explore our in vivo hematological model offering)
Selecting the Right Type of AML Model
Choosing the appropriate AML model depends on the specific research objectives. Researchers should as always try to match the research question with the complexity of the model, and the available resources. For instance, cell line models may suffice for preliminary studies, while patient-derived models are preferable for testing targeted therapies.
Collaborations with experienced organizations, like Champions Oncology, can provide valuable insights and access to tailored experimental solutions. (Contact us)
The Role of Clinical Annotations
Incorporating clinical annotations into AML model characterization is crucial to select the right models for replicating patient scenarios accurately. Champions primary AML models are deeply characterized and extensively annotated. These annotations provide context, linking laboratory findings to real-world patient data. By integrating molecular characteristics with clinical information such as treatment history and patient outcome, researchers can enhance the relevance and predictive power of the results obtained. This approach bridges the gap between experimental research and clinical application. (Dive into Lumin, our extensive multi-omics and multimodal database at lumin.bio)
The ongoing evolution of models and technologies promises a brighter future for AML research, ultimately bringing us closer to effective treatments and cures. The choice of clinically relevant AML models is vital for advancing oncology research in this field.
By recapitulating the disease heterogeneity and incorporating clinical annotations, Champions’ AML models from primary patient samples help researchers drive meaningful discoveries that will eventually improve patient outcomes.
By leveraging the expertise of leading organizations like Champions Oncology, you can access the tools and insights needed to elevate your research and make a lasting impact in the fight against AML.
