SW948 Xenograft Model Overview
The SW948 xenograft model is derived from a human colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line established from a primary colon tumor in a 65-year-old female patient. Known for its well-differentiated epithelial structure, SW948 provides an excellent platform for studying colorectal cancer therapies, particularly in the context of EGFR-targeted treatments and chemotherapy regimens. The model is characterized by its ability to form primary tumors with predictable growth kinetics and histological consistency. SW948 xenografts have proven invaluable for preclinical studies focused on evaluating drug efficacy, resistance mechanisms, and biomarker expression in colorectal carcinoma, offering insights into the molecular underpinnings of tumor progression and response to treatment.
Request a Custom Quote for SW948 Xenograft ModelBiological and Molecular Characteristics
SW948 cells maintain epithelial morphology with strong intercellular adhesion, forming well-polarized monolayers in culture. The cell line is microsatellite stable (MSS) and has a wild-type KRAS, BRAF, and NRAS background, ensuring responsiveness to EGFR-targeted therapies such as cetuximab and panitumumab. TP53 is mutated in this model, which compromises apoptotic signaling and contributes to resistance to DNA-damaging agents. The model expresses moderate to high levels of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and cytokeratin 20 (CK20), confirming its colorectal epithelial origin. Active Wnt/β-catenin signaling is present, with β-catenin predominantly located in the cytoplasm and at the membrane. These molecular features make the SW948 xenograft model highly relevant for studies targeting EGFR signaling, apoptosis, and tumor progression in colorectal cancer.
| Characteristic | SW948 Cell Line Profile |
|---|---|
| Tissue of Origin | Colorectal adenocarcinoma (primary) |
| KRAS/BRAF/NRAS Status | Wild-type |
| TP53 Status | Mutated |
| MSI Status | Microsatellite stable (MSS) |
| Differentiation Markers | CK20, CEA, E-cadherin |
| Wnt Signaling | Active, β-catenin cytoplasmic/membranous |
In Vivo Model Development and Tumorigenicity
SW948 xenografts are established through subcutaneous injection of cultured cells into immunodeficient mice, such as athymic nude or NOD/SCID strains. Tumor formation occurs reliably within 7 to 10 days, and tumors generally reach volumes of 700–900 mm³ within 4 to 6 weeks. The model demonstrates consistent growth kinetics and a stable histological phenotype, making it ideal for extended studies of drug efficacy, drug resistance, and combination therapies. The model’s wild-type KRAS and BRAF status ensures its responsiveness to EGFR-targeted treatments, while its TP53 mutation allows for studies involving DNA-damaging agents and therapies exploiting synthetic lethality. The predictable growth rate and reproducibility of SW948 xenografts make them ideal for multi-cycle treatment studies.
Request a Custom Quote for SW948 Xenograft ModelHistopathology and Immunohistochemical Profile
Histological examination of SW948 xenografts reveals moderately differentiated adenocarcinomas with glandular structures and minimal mucin production. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining highlights well-polarized epithelial cells with basally located nuclei and clear cytoplasm. Immunohistochemical analysis confirms strong expression of CEA, CK20, and E-cadherin, indicating the colorectal origin and epithelial nature of the tumors. β-catenin shows both membranous and cytoplasmic localization, consistent with active Wnt signaling. Mutant p53 is detected in the tumor nuclei, reflecting the loss of normal apoptotic function. The tumors exhibit minimal necrosis and low inflammatory infiltration, contributing to stable growth and experimental consistency across cohorts.
Preclinical Applications and Drug Response
The SW948 xenograft model is highly suitable for evaluating therapies targeting the EGFR pathway, particularly in the context of wild-type KRAS and BRAF tumors. Its responsiveness to EGFR inhibitors such as cetuximab and panitumumab makes it an ideal model for studying the effects of these agents on primary tumors and drug-resistant disease. The TP53 mutation in this model also provides an opportunity to investigate DNA-damaging agents and therapies targeting the DNA damage response. In addition, the model is useful for evaluating combination therapies that include EGFR inhibitors and agents targeting the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway, as well as studies focused on modulating tumor progression and metastasis. The well-defined molecular profile and stable in vivo growth make SW948 a reliable system for investigating novel colorectal cancer therapies.
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To explore the potential of the SW948 xenograft model in your colorectal cancer research or drug development program, contact our scientific team for detailed model specifications, customized study designs, and access to this reproducible and well-characterized model system.
Request a Custom Quote for SW948 Xenograft Model