Recent advances in the development and application of colorectal cancer mouse models

Yuli Zhang ¹ Zhen Chen ² Ting Wang ¹ Hua Sui ^1* Qingfeng Tang ³

• ¹ Shanghai General Hospital, Shanghai, China
• ² Henan University of Chinese Medicine, Zhengzhou, Henan Province, China
• ³ Renji Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China

Colorectal cancer (CRC) remains a significant global health challenge, necessitating the development of reliable preclinical models to advance mechanistic understanding and therapeutic innovation. This review comprehensively examines the diverse spectrum of rodent models employed in CRC research, focusing on their unique characteristics, applications, and translational relevance. We systematically evaluate conventional models, including carcinogen-induced models and genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs), which have been instrumental in elucidating tumorigenic pathways and genetic drivers. Furthermore, we highlight the emergence of patientderived xenografts (PDX) as a transformative tool for recapitulating tumor heterogeneity and predicting clinical responses. The review also explores metastatic models, which are critical for studying advanced disease, and spontaneous models that mimic natural tumor progression.Additionally, we discuss the growing utility of composite animal models, which integrate multiple methodologies to better reflect the complexity of human CRC. By comparing the strengths and limitations of each model system, this review provides a framework for selecting appropriate models based on specific research objectives. Collectively, these preclinical platforms have significantly advanced our understanding of CRC biology and continue to drive the development of targeted therapies and personalized treatment strategies.Colorectal cancer is one of the most common malignant tumors in the world, which is rising annually and typically occur in younger people. To evaluate various characteristics of human CRC, a variety of mouse models have been established, including transgenic, transplantation, induced, and spontaneous models. However, no single model can fully capture the characteristics of colorectal cancer in humans. There is growing evidence that metabolic diseases such as obesity and diabetes are closely associated with the development of colorectal cancer. It is crucial to employ particular colorectal cancer mice models in order to answer particular colorectal cancer research concerns. In this review, the authors discuss the various murine CRC models with a focus on their clinical relevance, benefits, and drawbacks. From all models discussed, murine CRC models will continue to be an important tool in advancing our understanding and treatment of this disease, but additional research is required to prove to be dependable for testing anti-cancer drugs.