Assessing Tumor Mechanics by MR Elastography at Different Strain Levels.

Background: Malignant tumors are associated with increased tissue rigidity, which can be an indicator of tumor progression. MR elastography (MRE) has the potential to study the variations of tumor mechanical properties. ex vivo studies have shown the ability of MRE to assess increase of mechanical properties; nevertheless, it has not yet been observed in vivo.

Setting up a wide panel of patient-derived tumor xenografts of non-small cell lung cancer by improving the preanalytical steps.

With the ongoing need to improve therapy for non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) there has been increasing interest in developing reliable preclinical models to test novel therapeutics. Patient-derived tumor xenografts (PDX) are considered to be interesting candidates. However, the establishment of such model systems requires highly specialized research facilities and introduces logistic challenges.