Patient-derived xenograft mouse model for personalized treatment in patients with multiple myeloma

Abstract Background: This study aimed to establish patient-derived xenografts (PDX) models of multiple myeloma and to evaluate the feasibility of using the PDX model to test chemotherapy responsiveness. Methods: Three patients with multiple myeloma were enrolled. Fresh multiple myeloma cells isolated from bone marrow or ascites samples were inoculated subcutaneously into flanks of NCG mice. Then, engrafted tumor pieces were inoculated into flanks of NCG mice. When tumor volumes reached 100–300 mm3, the mice were divided into groups to receive corresponding chemotherapy treatments. The volume and weight of tumors were quantified.Results: The first patient responded well to BCD (bortezomib, dexamethasone, and cyclophosphamide) chemotherapy, so did the patient’s PDX model. The second patient did not response to BCD, nor the patient’s PDX model. The third patient had a transient remission after treated with BCD, MPT (melphalan, prednisone, and thalidomide), or ILD (ixazomib, lenalidomide, and dexamethasone) regimens. The third patient’s PDX model, at least partially, responded to these regimens. Conclusion: Drug responses of the patients with multiple myeloma and their PDX mouse models were consistent. The PDX mouse model is a valid experimental platform that can be utilized in a clinical setting to select personalized therapies for patients with multiple myeloma.