SMA-560 Syngeneic Model Overview
The SMA-560 syngeneic model is a murine glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) system derived from the VM/Dk inbred mouse strain. This model originates from a spontaneous astrocytoma and represents a well-established, immunocompetent platform for studying glioma biology and immunotherapy. SMA-560 tumors are highly invasive, poorly differentiated, and characterized by aggressive growth and strong local immunosuppression, closely mirroring the pathological and immunological features of human glioblastoma.
When implanted intracranially or subcutaneously, SMA-560 cells form consistent, vascularized tumors with predictable kinetics. The model is particularly valuable for evaluating immune checkpoint inhibitors, oncolytic viruses, and radiotherapy-based combinations, as well as for mechanistic studies of tumor–immune interactions within the brain microenvironment. Due to its immune-competent background and reproducible tumor progression, SMA-560 has become one of the benchmark models for preclinical glioma research.
Request a Custom Quote for SMA-560 Syngeneic ModelBiological and Molecular Characteristics
The SMA-560 cell line was derived from a spontaneous astrocytoma that arose in a VM/Dk mouse, a strain with a high incidence of glial neoplasms. The cells display elongated, spindle-shaped morphology consistent with astrocytic origin and express classical glial markers such as glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) and S100β. At the molecular level, SMA-560 tumors exhibit activation of oncogenic pathways including PI3K-AKT and MAPK signaling, accompanied by upregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and transforming growth factor-beta (TGF-beta).
The tumor microenvironment is characterized by low immunogenicity and a high concentration of immunosuppressive cytokines such as IL-10 and TGF-beta. The stroma contains abundant tumor-associated macrophages and microglia, with limited infiltration of cytotoxic T cells, reflecting the immune-cold phenotype typical of human GBM. These features make SMA-560 a powerful tool for evaluating immunotherapy resistance and immune reprogramming strategies.
| Parameter | Description |
|---|---|
| Host strain | VM/Dk (female, 6–8 weeks) |
| Tumor origin | Spontaneous astrocytoma (mouse) |
| Histological type | High-grade glioma / glioblastoma multiforme |
| Inoculation route | Intracranial or subcutaneous |
| Tumor take rate | >90% |
| Doubling time | Approximately 3–5 days in vivo |
| Metastatic potential | Local brain invasion; no extracranial spread |
| Immunophenotype | Immune-cold; macrophage- and microglia-rich |
| Common applications | Immunotherapy, radiotherapy, oncolytic virotherapy, microglia modulation |
In Vivo Model Development and Tumorigenicity
The SMA-560 glioma model is typically established by intracranial implantation of tumor cells into VM/Dk mice using stereotactic guidance. Tumors develop within 7–10 days, resulting in neurological signs by approximately day 20–25. The intracranial model closely recapitulates the invasive growth, angiogenesis, and immune suppression seen in human glioblastoma. Subcutaneous implantation is also possible, providing an alternative system for non-CNS therapeutic evaluation and easier tumor volume measurement.
SMA-560 tumors exhibit rapid yet controlled growth and limited variability between animals. The model supports studies focused on immune checkpoint blockade, radiation-induced immune modulation, and combination regimens targeting both the tumor and its microenvironment. Because the tumors grow within an intact immune system and replicate the immunosuppressive milieu of GBM, SMA-560 serves as a key translational bridge between preclinical and clinical immuno-oncology research.
Request a Custom Quote for SMA-560 Syngeneic ModelHistopathology and Immunohistochemical Profile
Histopathological analysis of SMA-560 tumors reveals densely cellular, pleomorphic glial cells with hyperchromatic nuclei, high mitotic activity, and scattered necrotic foci. Tumors are highly vascularized, exhibiting microvascular proliferation and perivascular cuffing by immune cells, consistent with grade IV glioblastoma morphology. The infiltrative tumor margins extend into adjacent brain tissue, demonstrating extensive local invasion.
Immunohistochemical staining confirms GFAP expression, validating the glial origin of the tumor. Ki-67 staining shows high proliferative activity, while CD31 highlights an abundant capillary network. F4/80 and Iba1 staining reveal extensive macrophage and microglial infiltration throughout the tumor and peritumoral regions. T-cell infiltration, as shown by CD3 and CD8 staining, is sparse, and PD-L1 expression is upregulated following interferon exposure or checkpoint inhibitor treatment. These histopathological features make SMA-560 an accurate and clinically relevant model for studying the pathobiology of glioblastoma.
Preclinical Applications and Drug Response
The SMA-560 syngeneic model is extensively used for preclinical testing of immunotherapies, including PD-1 and CTLA-4 blockade, oncolytic viral therapies, and dendritic cell vaccines. The model’s immune-cold phenotype allows for the assessment of strategies that enhance T-cell infiltration, reprogram macrophages, or modulate cytokine signaling within the tumor microenvironment. SMA-560 has also been employed in studies investigating radiation-induced immune activation and the synergistic effects of combining radiotherapy with immunotherapy.
Oncolytic virus-based treatments have shown promising activity in this system, leading to enhanced immune cell recruitment and prolonged survival. The model is also applied in evaluating nanoparticle and viral delivery systems for targeted drug distribution within the brain. Because of its reproducible tumor kinetics, immunocompetent background, and histological similarity to human GBM, SMA-560 remains one of the most informative and translationally relevant murine glioma models in neuro-oncology research.
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To request the SMA-560 syngeneic model for your preclinical studies, please use the form below. A customized quote and additional model specifications will be provided upon inquiry.
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