Genetically Engineered Mouse Model of Brainstem High-Grade Glioma

Summary Brainstem gliomas are aggressive tumors that are more prevalent in pediatric patients. The location of these tumors makes them inoperable, and currently there is no effective treatment. Recent genomic data revealed the unique biology of these tumors. The following protocol provides a method to incorporate these specific genetic lesions in a mouse glioma model. Using this model, the effects of these mutations in tumor progression and response to treatments can be studied within a relevant in vivo context. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Mendez et al. (2020).
Graphical Abstract
Highlights • We describe a method to induce spontaneous brainstem high-grade gliomas in mice • Genetic drivers can be selected to recapitulate human pediatric brainstem lesions • Tumors develop in an immunocompetent host, providing a relevant preclinical model • Cells isolated from the tumors can be implanted, generating a transplantable model
Brainstem gliomas are aggressive tumors that are more prevalent in pediatric patients. The location of these tumors makes them inoperable, and currently there is no effective treatment. Recent genomic data revealed the unique biology of these tumors. The following protocol provides a method to incorporate these specific genetic lesions in a mouse glioma model. Using this model, the effects of these mutations in tumor progression and response to treatments can be studied within a relevant in vivo context.