Orthotopic brain tumor models derived from glioblastoma stem-like cells

There is an urgency for identifying effective therapies for glioblastoma (GBM), an incurable and lethal primary malignant brain tumor. Patient-derived xenograft mouse models, in which glioma stem cells, which retain the characteristics of the original tumor, are implanted into the brain of immunocompromised mice, represent a well-suited model for studying GBM. Such models are essential for studies involving the tumor microenvironment and for testing experimental therapeutics for brain tumors. In this chapter, we detail various steps for generating an orthotopic brain tumor model in mice. We provide step-by-step guidance for enrichment and expansion of glioma stem cells for surgical specimens, surgical injection of these cells into the brain of immunocompromised mice, as well as monitoring of tumor growth.