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CDX Models for Oncology Drug Discovery

Cell line-derived xenograft (CDX) models provide reliable, reproducible platforms for evaluating novel cancer therapeutics across a broad range of tumor indications. 

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Successful oncology drug development depends on selecting the right preclinical models to generate confident efficacy and translational data. Featuring extensive experience in oncology pharmacology, we offer a comprehensive portfolio of CDX models, including orthotopic and humanized CDX mouse models and complementary rat xenograft studies, designed to support discovery, lead optimization, translational research, and IND-enabling programs. Our model platforms enable assessment of targeted therapies, small molecules, biologics, antibody-based therapeutics, viral, gene and cell therapies, and combination treatment strategies. 

 
Comprehensive CDX Mouse Models
CDX Rat Models for Enhanced Translational Confidence

Our CDX mouse models utilize well-characterized human cancer cell lines implanted into immunodeficient hosts to provide robust and reproducible in vivo efficacy data. Models are available across a wide range of solid tumors and hematological malignancies. Our portfolio includes hundreds of established cell line-derived xenograft models, enabling rapid study initiation and efficient model selection aligned to your therapeutic hypothesis. Many models are supported by molecular characterization, tumor growth data, and pharmacological response profiles to facilitate data-driven study design and translational decision-making.

In addition to our extensive mouse portfolio, we offer CDX rat models using immunodeficient (nude and SRG) rats. Rat xenograft studies can provide additional translational insights by capturing physiological and metabolic characteristics that more closely reflect certain aspects of human biology. These models are particularly valuable as a complementary species during later-stage preclinical development and IND preparation.

How to Select the Right CDX Model

How to Select the Right CDX Model

Selecting the right CDX model is essential for generating clinically relevant, decision-making data. The most effective model aligns with your therapeutic mechanism, target biology, patient population, and development objectives. By combining disease biology, molecular characterization, and translational endpoints, we identify the CDX model best suited to accelerate your oncology drug development.

Tumor indication

Tumor indication

Choose a model that reflects the intended cancer type, such as lung, breast, colorectal, ovarian, prostate, or hematological malignancies.
Molecular profile

Molecular profile

Consider target expression, relevant mutations, biomarker status, and resistance mechanisms to ensure biological relevance. 
Historical response data

Historical response data

Models with established standard-of-care response data can support benchmarking and combination study design.
Tumor growth characteristics

Tumor growth characteristics

Consistent growth rates and high take rates help improve study reproducibility and timelines.
Model format

Model format

Select from subcutaneous, orthotopic, disseminated, or humanized CDX mouse models based on study objectives and translational requirements.
Development stage

Development stage

Early discovery programs may prioritize rapid screening, while later-stage studies often require biomarker integration, PK/PD analysis, and evaluation in a second species, such as rat CDX models.
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From Mechanism Validation to IND-Enabling Studies

Our integrated approach combines in vivo efficacy testing with translational and analytical capabilities to deliver deeper biological insight and stronger decision-making throughout the drug development continuum. By integrating pharmacology, bioanalysis, pathology, and biomarker expertise within a single workflow, we help reduce program risk, accelerate timelines, and improve confidence in translational outcomes.

  • Pharmacokinetic and bioavailability assessments
  • Biomarker discovery and validation
  • Histopathology and tissue analysis
  • Hematology evaluations
  • Tumor microenvironment investigations
  • Combination therapy design and optimization
  • In vitro and ex vivo oncology screening platforms

Why Partner With Us for CDX Studies?

Drug developers require more than access to animal models. They need a strategic partner that can align model selection, study execution, and translational interpretation with development objectives. Whether you are advancing a first-in-class therapy, validating a novel target, or optimizing a clinical candidate, our vast range of CDX models, translational endpoints and depth of oncology expertise provide the scientific foundation needed to generate actionable oncology data and accelerate development success.
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Frequently Asked Questions About CDX Models
What is a CDX model?

A cell line-derived xenograft (CDX) model is created by implanting established human cancer cell lines into immunodeficient animals to evaluate the efficacy of oncology therapeutics in vivo. CDX models are widely used for screening and optimizing targeted therapies, biologics, and combination treatments.
Why are CDX mouse models commonly used in oncology drug discovery?

CDX mouse models offer a well-characterized, reproducible, and cost-effective platform for assessing anti-tumor activity across a broad range of cancer types. Their extensive historical datasets and predictable growth characteristics make them valuable for candidate selection and preclinical decision-making. 
How do I choose the right CDX model for my program?

Model selection should be based on factors including tumor indication, target expression, molecular profile, biomarker requirements, study endpoints, and therapeutic modality. Working with experienced oncology scientists can help ensure the selected model aligns with both scientific and development objectives. 
Can CDX studies be combined with biomarker and PK/PD analyses?

Yes. CDX studies can be integrated with pharmacokinetic (PK), pharmacodynamic (PD), biomarker, histopathology, and hematology assessments to provide a more comprehensive understanding of efficacy, mechanism of action, and translational potential. 
When should CDX rat models be considered?

CDX rat models can provide complementary translational data and may be used as a second species during later stages of development. They are particularly useful when additional physiological, pharmacological, or IND-enabling evidence is required to support clinical progression.