22Rv1 Xenograft Model Overview
The 22Rv1 xenograft model is derived from a human prostate cancer cell line, 22Rv1, which was established from a metastatic lesion in a patient with androgen-independent prostate cancer. This cell line is particularly valuable for studying castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC), a form of prostate cancer that progresses despite low levels of androgens. The 22Rv1 model is commonly used in preclinical research to evaluate the effectiveness of androgen receptor (AR) signaling inhibitors, androgen deprivation therapies, and other targeted therapies for prostate cancer. Its utility in studying AR signaling, metastasis, and resistance to therapy makes it a critical model for the development of novel treatments for prostate cancer, particularly for advanced stages of the disease.
Request a Custom Quote for 22Rv1 Xenograft ModelBiological and Molecular Characteristics
22Rv1 cells express high levels of androgen receptors (AR), making them particularly useful for studying androgen-dependent and androgen-independent prostate cancer. In addition to expressing AR, the cells produce prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a biomarker commonly used to monitor prostate cancer progression. Unlike some other prostate cancer models, 22Rv1 cells harbor a point mutation in the AR gene, which leads to increased AR activity despite androgen deprivation. This mutation contributes to the androgen-independent growth of the cells, making the 22Rv1 xenograft model especially relevant for studying castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) and for testing therapies targeting AR signaling.
The 22Rv1 model also shows mutations in the tumor suppressor gene TP53 and alterations in key signaling pathways such as PI3K/AKT, which contribute to tumor progression, metastasis, and resistance to chemotherapy. The combination of AR signaling dysregulation and these additional genetic alterations makes the 22Rv1 xenograft model highly useful for testing new therapies aimed at overcoming resistance mechanisms in prostate cancer.
| Marker | Expression Level | Function |
|---|---|---|
| Androgen Receptor | High | Key driver of prostate cancer growth |
| PSA | Elevated | Prostate-specific biomarker for monitoring cancer progression |
| TP53 | Mutated | Tumor suppressor gene involved in apoptosis |
| PI3K/AKT pathway | Dysregulated | Promotes tumor growth and survival |
In Vivo Model Development and Tumorigenicity
The 22Rv1 xenograft model is typically established by implanting 22Rv1 cells into immunocompromised mice, such as NOD/SCID or NSG mice, which lack functional T and B cells. Upon implantation, the cells form rapidly growing tumors that closely resemble human prostate cancer, including androgen-dependent and androgen-independent tumor growth patterns. The tumors exhibit high cellularity, frequent necrosis, and significant vascularization due to the rapid growth of the tumor.
The model is particularly valuable for evaluating therapies targeting androgen receptor signaling, as 22Rv1 tumors can grow in the presence of low androgen levels. This makes the model ideal for studying castration-resistant prostate cancer (CRPC) and testing therapies designed to block AR signaling or target mechanisms that lead to resistance. In addition to subcutaneous implantation, orthotopic implantation of 22Rv1 cells into the prostate gland of immunocompromised mice can more closely replicate the natural site of tumor growth. The orthotopic model also allows for the study of local invasion and metastatic spread, providing an opportunity to evaluate therapies for advanced prostate cancer.
Request a Custom Quote for 22Rv1 Xenograft ModelHistopathology and Immunohistochemical Profile
Histopathological analysis of 22Rv1 xenografts reveals tumors that exhibit typical features of prostate adenocarcinoma, including glandular structures, high mitotic activity, and areas of necrosis due to rapid tumor growth. Immunohistochemical staining of 22Rv1 xenografts shows strong expression of androgen receptors (AR) in the tumor cells, confirming the androgen-dependent nature of the tumor. Elevated levels of prostate-specific antigen (PSA) are also detected, which correlates with the high tumor burden and disease progression. In addition, the tumors exhibit mutations in TP53, further supporting the aggressive nature of the tumor. The presence of phosphorylated AKT in the tumors suggests activation of the PI3K/AKT pathway, which plays a key role in tumor survival and progression. CD31 staining reveals significant vascularization within the tumors, reflecting the angiogenic activity that supports tumor growth.
Preclinical Applications and Drug Response
The 22Rv1 xenograft model is widely used to evaluate the efficacy of androgen receptor-targeted therapies, including androgen deprivation therapy (ADT) and second-generation anti-androgens such as enzalutamide and abiraterone. Given the model’s androgen-independent growth, it is particularly valuable for studying therapies that aim to block AR signaling and for testing new approaches to overcome resistance to these therapies. The model is also used to assess the effectiveness of combination therapies, where AR-targeted treatments are combined with chemotherapy, immunotherapy, or other targeted therapies.
In addition to AR-targeted therapies, the 22Rv1 xenograft model is useful for investigating the role of the PI3K/AKT pathway in prostate cancer progression. Given the frequent dysregulation of this pathway in prostate cancer, therapies targeting PI3K/AKT are being tested in 22Rv1 xenografts to determine their ability to reduce tumor growth and overcome resistance to AR-targeted treatments.
The 22Rv1 model is also increasingly used to evaluate immunotherapies, including immune checkpoint inhibitors, which have shown promise in treating other cancers and are now being explored for prostate cancer. The model’s ability to replicate both androgen-dependent and androgen-independent prostate cancer growth makes it an excellent system for testing a wide range of novel therapies.
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To request the 22Rv1 xenograft model for your preclinical studies, please use the form below. A customized quote and additional model specifications will be provided upon inquiry.
Request a Custom Quote for 22Rv1 Xenograft Model