NAMALWA Xenograft Model Overview
The NAMALWA xenograft model is derived from a human Burkitt’s lymphoma cell line originally isolated from the peripheral blood of a female patient with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-positive non-Hodgkin lymphoma. This model represents a mature B-cell neoplasm with features consistent with endemic Burkitt’s lymphoma, including rapid proliferation, constitutive MYC activation, and robust immunoglobulin production. The NAMALWA cell line retains EBV episomes, enabling investigation into virus-associated lymphomagenesis and host-viral interactions. When engrafted into immunodeficient mice, NAMALWA cells give rise to fast-growing, highly vascular tumors, providing a well-characterized and reproducible platform for evaluating B-cell malignancy therapeutics, including anti-CD20 antibodies, BCL2 antagonists, and antiviral compounds.
Request a Custom Quote for NAMALWA Xenograft ModelBiological and Molecular Characteristics
NAMALWA cells are EBV-positive and harbor the classic t(8;14)(q24;q32) translocation that leads to MYC overexpression, a defining feature of Burkitt’s lymphoma. The cell line expresses surface markers associated with mature B cells, including CD19, CD20, CD22, and immunoglobulin M (IgM), while being negative for CD10 and CD5. NAMALWA also expresses MHC class I and II molecules, and its EBV latency program contributes to the expression of latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1) and EBNA1. These viral antigens participate in cell survival, proliferation, and immune evasion mechanisms, making this model uniquely suited for studying viral oncogenesis and immunotherapy. The cells also express high levels of BCL6 and moderate levels of BCL2, reflecting their germinal center origin and apoptotic resistance.
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Tissue Origin | Human Burkitt’s lymphoma (EBV-positive, peripheral blood) |
| Key Alterations | t(8;14) MYC translocation, EBV genome with LMP1/EBNA1 |
| Immunophenotype | CD19+, CD20+, CD22+, IgM+, MHC I/II+, CD10–, CD5– |
| Viral Features | EBV-positive, latency-associated proteins expressed |
| Therapeutic Relevance | MYC-targeted therapy, anti-CD20, antiviral and immunotherapy |
In Vivo Model Development and Tumorigenicity
The NAMALWA xenograft model is established by subcutaneous injection of cultured cells into immunodeficient mice, such as NSG or NOD/SCID strains. Tumor formation is rapid and reliable, typically observed within 10–14 days post-injection. The tumors are highly vascularized and grow rapidly, reaching volumes of 400–800 mm³ within four to five weeks. NAMALWA tumors exhibit homogeneous morphology and consistent growth kinetics, which facilitates statistically powered drug response studies. This model is especially advantageous in evaluating antiviral compounds, EBV latency reversal agents, and therapies targeting the MYC axis, BCR signaling, or immune surveillance pathways.
Request a Custom Quote for NAMALWA Xenograft ModelHistopathology and Immunohistochemical Profile
Histologically, NAMALWA xenografts exhibit a dense monomorphic population of medium-sized lymphoid cells with round nuclei, multiple nucleoli, and a high mitotic index. Hematoxylin and eosin staining reveals a starry-sky appearance typical of Burkitt’s lymphoma due to tingible body macrophages scattered among tumor cells. Immunohistochemical analysis confirms strong nuclear MYC expression, high Ki-67 labeling (>90%), and robust membranous CD20 staining. EBV latency markers including LMP1 and EBNA1 are detectable, and BCL6 nuclear staining supports a germinal center B-cell origin. The absence of CD10 helps distinguish this model from classical follicular lymphomas.
Preclinical Applications and Drug Response
The NAMALWA xenograft model serves as a versatile tool in evaluating preclinical therapies for high-grade B-cell lymphomas, particularly those driven by MYC and EBV. It has demonstrated responsiveness to CD20-targeted monoclonal antibodies, BET inhibitors, and BCL2 antagonists, as well as antiviral agents that target EBV replication or latency. The model is highly amenable to studies involving T-cell engagers, antibody-drug conjugates, and immune checkpoint modulators. Its ability to express EBV antigens also makes it relevant for vaccine testing and immune reconstitution studies in humanized mice. Given its rapid growth and consistent tumorigenesis, the NAMALWA model is well-suited for high-throughput drug screening and mechanistic investigations into lymphomagenesis.
Request This Model
To request the NAMALWA 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 NAMALWA Xenograft Model