Thoracic Neuroblastoma: A Novel Surgical Model for the Study of Extra-adrenal Neuroblastoma

Background/Aim: Neuroblastoma is clinically and molecularly heterogeneous, with poor outcomes despite multimodal treatment strategies. The primary tumor site is an independent predictor of survival; adrenal tumors have the worst outcomes, while posterior mediastinum tumors carry a more favorable prognosis. Materials and Methods: To elucidate the role of the primary tumor microenvironment in mediating survival outcomes, we developed a mouse model for the study of extra-adrenal neuroblastoma by injecting luciferase-tagged cells into either the subpleural space of the posterior chest or the adrenal gland. Results: Solid tumors developed in the thoracic cavity at the same rate and efficiency as the adrenal as early as one week postsurgery. The survival rate following surgery was equivalent, though the physiological tolerance for large tumors was lower in the thoracic group. Conclusion: This novel mouse model of survivable extra-adrenal neuroblastoma will enable future investigations of the distinct tumor microenvironments between the adrenal gland and posterior mediastinum.

Automated summary

In this study, researchers developed a mouse model to study neuroblastoma in different tumor sites. The results showed that tumors developed at the same rate in the thoracic cavity and adrenal gland, but the physiological tolerance for large tumors was lower in the thoracic group.