Murine models of colorectal cancer: the azoxymethane (AOM)/dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) model of colitis-associated cancer

Background. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third most common cancer. It is a heterogeneous disease, including both hereditary and sporadic types of tumors. CRC results from complex interactions between various genetic and environmental factors. Inflammatory bowel disease is an important risk factor for developing CRC. Despite growing understanding of the CRC biology, preclinical models are still needed to investigate the etiology and pathogenesis of the disease, as well as to find new methods of treatment and prevention. Objectives. The purpose of this review is to describe existing murine models of CRC with a focus on the models of colitis-associated CRC. This manuscript could be relevant for experimental biologists and oncologists. Methodology. We checked PubMed and Google from 01/2018 to 05/2023 for reviews of CRC models. In addition, we searched PubMed from 01/2022 to 01/2023 for articles using the azoxymethane (AOM)/dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) CRC model. Results. Existing murine models of CRC include spontaneous, genetically engineered, transplantation, and chemically induced models. For the study of colitis-associated cancer (CAC), the AOM/DSS model is predominantly used. This model is very similar in histological and molecular characteristics to the human CAC, and is highly reproducible, inexpensive, and easy to use. Despite its popularity, the AOM/DSS model is not standardized, which makes it difficult to analyze and compare data from different studies. Conclusions. Each model demonstrates particular advantages and disadvantages, and allows to reproduce different subtypes or aspects of the pathogenesis of CRC.

Automated summary

This review discusses existing murine models of CRC, with a particular focus on colitis-associated CRC models. The AOM/DSS model is found to be the most commonly used model for studying colitis-associated cancer, as it closely resembles human CAC in histological and molecular characteristics and is highly reproducible, inexpensive, and easy to use.