Tailored Research Services
It is our goal to support and educate researchers, deliver high-quality characterized PDX models and perform therapy efficacy studies, available in a timely fashion without excessive administrative burden for researchers.
PDX Generation Service
PDX Biobank Service
PDX Therapy Efficacy Studies Service
In close collaboration with researchers, we ensure the careful processing and implantation of patient-derived tumor material for primary engraftment. Following successful engraftment, we facilitate expansion and conduct thorough validation through molecular and histopathological characterization, comparing the PDX model to the original patient tumor. This approach preserves tumor heterogeneity and clinical relevance, providing robust models for translational cancer research.
Our PDX biobank service provides re-initiation and expansion of biobanked PDX models, ensuring reliable access to pre-established patient-derived xenografts. Researchers can obtain a variety of sample types, enabling diverse experimental applications. Long-term central backup storage is maintained at the UZG Biobank, safeguarding valuable resources. An open-access catalog offers a broad range of models, including multiple hematological malignancies, supporting cutting-edge translational cancer research.
Our PDX therapy efficacy studies service utilizes these ‘avatar models’ for personalized medicine and co-clinical trials, providing a translational platform to evaluate therapeutic responses. We support the growth and expansion of PDX models, offer expert guidance on experimental design, and conduct comprehensive toxicity and therapy efficacy studies. The generated data will facilitate biomarker discovery and enable in-depth analysis of cell- and tissue-based effects induced by therapeutic agents or compounds, driving precision oncology research.
Comprehensive Expertise in PDX and Preclinical Research Technologies
Our team offers a wide range of advanced technologies and methodologies to enhance the precision and relevance of preclinical cancer research:
- Implantation Strategies: We utilize various implantation methods, including orthotopic, subcutaneous, and intrascapular approaches, to ensure tumor models closely mimic the clinical environment, providing more accurate predictions of therapeutic outcomes.
- Resection of Primary Tumors: Our expertise in primary tumor resection allows for the creation of sophisticated models that reflect tumor progression and response to treatments, enabling the study of metastatic behavior and therapeutic efficacy.
- Drug Administration Routes: We have extensive experience in a diverse panel of drug administration routes, ensuring flexibility in study design and the ability to simulate a range of clinical drug delivery methods for more translational results.
- Digital and Manual Caliper Measurements: We can employ both digital and manual caliper measurements to accurately track tumor growth and response to treatment, providing reliable and precise data throughout the course of the study.
- Blood Analyses: Our team is able to conduct thorough blood analyses to monitor systemic responses, and assess the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of therapeutic agents.
- Animal Imaging Core Cooperation: We work closely with the animal imaging core, leveraging technologies like IVIS imaging to monitor tumor growth and treatment effects in vivo, offering real-time insights into model behavior and therapeutic responses.
- Flow Cytometry Core Cooperation: Collaborating with the flow cytometry core, we perform detailed cellular analysis to examine tumor microenvironments, immune responses, and drug effects at the cellular level.
- Animal Facilities with Diverse Modalities: the two well-equipped animal facilities offer a range of modalities, including fume hoods, flow systems, and anesthesia options, ensuring optimal conditions for various preclinical studies and enhancing the welfare of the animals involved.
These technologies, combined with our expertise, allow us to offer tailored, high-quality preclinical models and studies, advancing the development of personalized cancer therapies.
For more information on pricing and conditions, please feel free to contact us at PDXGhentcore@ugent.be.