Humanized immune system mice: Improving the predictability of mouse models in immuno-oncology drug development (TUM3P.1044)

Abstract Mouse models are widely used in preclinical oncology research but species differences can limit efficacy predictions for clinical translation. Taconic Biosciences, Inc. is leveraging the super immunodeficient status of the CIEA NOD.Cg-Prkdcscid Il2rgtm1Sug/JicTac (NOG) mouse, which allows it so support the engraftment of human cells and tissues, to accelerate efficacy and safety testing of novel immunotherapies. We have optimized this model for efficient engraftment of the human immune system, and co-engraftment of patient derived xenografts (PDX). In a collaboration with Champions Oncology, the PDX engrafted humanized NOG mouse responded to immune checkpoint inhibition, by activating T cells which are able to infiltrate the tumor. An overview of Taconic's humanization program will be presented, including data showing the utility of humanized mice in PDX applications for immuno-oncology drug development, and recent advances in the development of next generation humanized mice