DBTRG-05MG Xenograft Model Service for Glioblastoma

The DBTRG-05MG xenograft model offers a robust and clinically relevant platform for evaluating therapeutic strategies against glioblastoma, the most aggressive form of primary brain cancer. At Alfa Cytology, we leverage this well-characterized cell line to deliver high-fidelity preclinical xenograft services that accelerate your compound's path from discovery to development.

Overview of DBTRG-05MG Xenograft Model for Glioblastoma

The DBTRG-05MG cell line was originally established from a 59-year-old female patient diagnosed with glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) who had undergone prior local brain irradiation and multidrug chemotherapy. This cell line exhibits a hypotetraploid karyotype (2n = 87--91) with characteristic molecular alterations, including excess copies of chromosome 7 and loss of chromosome 10, which are frequently observed in primary GBM tumors. Immunocytochemical analysis reveals positive staining for vimentin, S100 protein, and neuron-specific enolase (NSE), reflecting its primitive neuroectodermal origin, while epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) expression correlates with the observed chromosome 7 amplification. Notably, the cell line is negative for glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), platelet-derived growth factor (PDGF), and neuronal cell adhesion molecule (NCAM), distinguishing it from other glial-derived lines.

In xenograft applications, DBTRG-05MG demonstrates robust tumorigenicity in immunodeficient mouse strains, forming tumors that recapitulate key histopathological features of human GBM, including pseudopalisading necrosis and microvascular proliferation. The model has been extensively utilized in preclinical studies to evaluate targeted therapies, including HSP90 inhibitors such as 17-AAG, and to investigate invasive tumor behavior in response to hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) stimulation. Its documented sensitivity to topoisomerase I inhibition and its utility in orthotopic implantation studies---where tumors exhibit intracranial dissemination and skull osteolysis---make DBTRG-05MG a versatile and translationally relevant platform for glioblastoma drug development.

Figure 1. DBTRG-05MG bystander cells stained with crystal violet after 10 to 14 days of treatment. (Zainudin, N H M, et al., 2019)

Cell Line Information: DBTRG-05MG

The following table summarizes the essential characteristics and culture parameters of the DBTRG-05MG cell line, compiled from authenticated sources including ATCC, DSMZ, and primary literature.

Our Services

Alfa Cytology provides end-to-end DBTRG-05MG xenograft model services tailored to your preclinical research objectives. From cell line authentication and quality-controlled expansion to orthotopic or subcutaneous implantation, tumor monitoring, and comprehensive endpoint analysis---including histopathology, biomarker profiling, and pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic correlation---our integrated platform ensures reproducible, publication-ready data that advances your therapeutic candidates with confidence and efficiency.

Workflow of DBTRG-05MG Xenograft Model Construction

Construction of the DBTRG-05MG xenograft model follows a standardized, quality-assured workflow designed to maximize tumor take rates and ensure consistent, reproducible tumor growth for preclinical evaluation. Each stage is executed under stringent quality control measures, from cell authentication through endpoint analysis.

1. Cell Authentication and Expansion: DBTRG-05MG cells are revived from authenticated stocks (ATCC CRL-2020 or DSMZ ACC-359) and expanded under defined culture conditions. Cells are verified by STR profiling, tested for mycoplasma contamination, and harvested at logarithmic growth phase for optimal viability prior to implantation.
2. Pre-Implantation Preparation: Harvested cells are washed, counted, and resuspended in a serum-free medium or Matrigel mixture to enhance engraftment efficiency. Cell viability is confirmed by trypan blue exclusion, and inoculum concentration is adjusted according to the intended implantation site and study design.
3. Animal Selection and Acclimation: Immunodeficient mouse strains---typically athymic nude (nu/nu) or NOD-SCID---are selected based on study requirements and acclimated for 7--14 days. Health status is verified, and animals are randomized into treatment groups prior to tumor cell inoculation.
4. Tumor Cell Implantation: For subcutaneous models, DBTRG-05MG cells are injected into the flank region. For orthotopic brain models, stereotactic injection into the striatum or cortex is performed under anesthesia. Tumor take rates and growth kinetics are monitored via caliper measurement (subcutaneous) or non-invasive imaging modalities such as bioluminescence or MRI (orthotopic).
5. Tumor Monitoring and Randomization: Tumor volume is measured twice weekly using digital calipers for subcutaneous models, or via imaging for orthotopic studies. Once tumors reach the designated baseline volume (typically 100--200 mm^3 for subcutaneous), animals are randomized into vehicle and treatment cohorts.
6. Treatment Administration and Data Collection: Test compounds are administered according to the predefined dosing regimen (route, frequency, and duration). Body weight, tumor dimensions, and clinical signs are recorded throughout the study period to assess antitumor efficacy and tolerability.
7. Endpoint Analysis and Reporting: At study termination, tumors are excised, weighed, and processed for histopathological examination (H&E, IHC), molecular profiling, and pharmacodynamic biomarker analysis. Data are compiled into a comprehensive study report with statistical analysis, supporting your IND-enabling or publication objectives.

Figure 2. DBTRG-05MG xenograft model construction workflow.

Case Study-DBTRG-05MG Xenograft Model Development

In a recent engagement, Alfa Cytology developed a subcutaneous DBTRG-05MG xenograft model to evaluate a novel targeted therapeutic candidate for glioblastoma. The study achieved consistent tumor engraftment with a take rate exceeding 90%, and dose-dependent tumor growth inhibition was observed across multiple treatment arms. Pharmacodynamic analysis confirmed target engagement in excised tumor tissue, while tolerability profiling supported the selection of an optimal dosing schedule for subsequent IND-enabling studies. Detailed efficacy data, tumor growth curves, and biomarker results are available upon request under confidentiality agreement.

Why Choose Alfa Cytology?

Alfa Cytology combines scientific rigor with operational flexibility to deliver preclinical xenograft services that meet the highest standards of data integrity and regulatory compliance. Our DBTRG-05MG model service is designed to accelerate your drug development timeline while ensuring reproducible, defensible results.

• Authenticated cell lines with verified STR profiles and documented passage history ensure genetic fidelity throughout your study.
• Customizable study designs encompassing subcutaneous, orthotopic, and metastatic model configurations tailored to your therapeutic mechanism.
• Integrated in vivo imaging capabilities (bioluminescence, MRI, ultrasound) enabling real-time tumor monitoring and reduced animal usage.
• Comprehensive endpoint analysis including histopathology, immunohistochemistry, flow cytometry, and molecular biomarker quantification.
• Dedicated project management with transparent milestone tracking and interim data reporting to support agile decision-making.
• GLP-compliant documentation and quality systems suitable for IND submission and peer-reviewed publication requirements.

Contact Us

Ready to advance your glioblastoma therapeutic program with a validated DBTRG-05MG xenograft model? Contact us today to discuss your study requirements, receive a customized proposal, and partner with Alfa Cytology for preclinical success. Please reach out to us today via our inquiry form or email to learn more about our DBTRG-05MG Xenograft Model services.

For research use only. Not intended for any clinical use.