A Novel Gene Signature predicting fibroblast composition in the TME allows for an improved selection of PDX models for preclinical studies

The Tumor Microenvironment (TME) drives tumor progression, metastasis, and therapy resistance, with cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs) playing a key role in immune evasion and resistance mechanisms. To better characterize the TME, Champions Oncology analyzed transcriptomic data from TumorGraft PDX models using the xCell method, identifying molecular signatures predictive of fibroblast presence and enhancing the clinical relevance of preclinical studies.

• Histological analysis validated computational findings, creating a TME atlas of the PDX bank with a focus on fibroblast populations.

• A fibroblast score was developed to rank the entire PDX bank based on fibroblast infiltration, aiding in model selection for pre-clinical and clinical studies.

• The fibroblast score is crucial for identifying models where fibroblasts play a key role in regulating TME dynamics and influencing therapeutic mechanisms.