PDX Model Studies
We currently have more than 400 fully characterized proprietary patient-derived xenografts in our portfolio, which represent all major histotypes and tumors, and provide extensive background and characterization.
Figure 1: Schematic of Patient Derived Xenograft (PDX) Models
Our PDX Model portfolio includes:
- Subcutaneous, orthotopic, and disseminated models of cancer
- Extensive molecular and pharmacological characterization, and complete records on patients‘ pretreatment
- Integrated approach using the same PDX models and/or the corresponding cell line
- 2D/3D screening assays and subsequent PDX in vivo efficacy studies
- Identification of biomarkers, which predicts tumor sensitivity of compounds
- PDX Model platform using humanized mice in standard or single mouse trial format (SMT)
Constant addition of new PDX models, which are continuously established through international collaborations with major hospitals and universities.
Patient-Derived Xenografts - Cancer Model Database

Support your in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo studies with the following at your fingertips:
- New user-friendly search and easy-to-navigate menus
- New model data, including HLA typing, growth curves, and tumor images
- New multi-parameter search options for all tumor model types (PDX and CDX)
Patient-Derived Xenografts
Charles River’s patient-derived xenografts use tumor grafts as explants established as models at low passage numbers (average of six passes removed from patient). They have not been grown in plastic or propagated as cell cultures.
Establishing xenograft tumor models from patient-derived tumor tissue (PDTT) at low passage is believed to conserve original tumor characteristics such as heterogeneous histology, clinical biomolecular signature, malignant phenotypes and genotypes, tumor architecture, and tumor vasculature. Based on this prevalent hypothesis, patient-derived xenografts are believed to offer relevant predictive insights into clinical outcomes when evaluating the efficacy of novel cancer therapies.
By leveraging the wealth of information that we have on each tumor model, we can help you with your study and provide suggested patient-derived xenograft PDX models to test.
TELL US MORE ABOUT YOUR TARGET/STUDY
Leveraging In vitro and Ex Vivo PDX Models
2D and 3D cell-based assays performed with low passage, PDX-derived material serve as cost- and time-effective tools for selecting appropriate PDX models as well as conditions for in vivo efficacy studies. An integrated approach based on PDX in vitro, ex vivo, in vivo, and bioinformatics data will facilitate drug development and enhance the speed of preclinical oncology research.
Pharmacological effects and pharmacokinetics of test compounds can be determined in the tumor microenvironment with high sensitivity and temporal resolution by our in vivo microdialysis services.

A High-Content Image Analysis Approach for Quantitative Measurements of Chemosensitivity in Patient-Derived Tumor Microtissues
Learn about the data correlation between in vitro 3D PDX cultures and in vivo PDX tumor models. Read Article
To learn more about our offerings, including molecular information, visit our Tumor Model Compendium.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) in Oncology Research
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What is a patient-derived xenograft (PDX) model?
Patient-derived xenografts (PDX) are models of cancer where the tissue or cells from a patient’s tumor are implanted into an immunedeficient or humanized mouse. PDX models simulate human tumor biology allowing for natural cancer progression, and offer the most translational research model for evaluating efficacy.
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What is a humanized mouse model?
Humanized models are highly immunodeficient mice into which human immune systems are engrafted via peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) or hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). Humanized mice serve as valuable tools for evaluating therapeutic candidates in an in vivo setting relevant to human physiology.
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What is a syngeneic mouse model?
Syngeneic mouse models, also known as Allograft mouse tumor systems, consist of tumor tissues derived from the same genetic background as a given mouse strain. As the syngeneic mice retain intact immune systems, they are particularly relevant for studies of immunotherapies.
Learn more about the rise of syngeneic models in cancer immunotherapy
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What is an orthotopic model?
In orthotopic models, tumors are implanted into the equivalent organ from which the cancer originated. Orthotopic models have a similar tumor microenvironment as the original tumor, which allows for the assessment of tumor development in a model that mimics natural disease progression.
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What oncology models are right for me?
In a complex and changing field, knowing the next step can be difficult. Answer a few brief questions about your research to receive expert guidance on how to advance your oncology program.
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What is the latest oncology news?
Charles River's Oncology Fast 5, is a scientist-curated skim of industry articles, blog posts, data, and interactive content covering hot topics in cancer research. Our digest will be delivered to your inbox once a month. Sign up today.
Have another question or need advice on which model is right for you?