SW480 Xenograft Model Service for Colon Cancer

The SW480 xenograft model is a well-established preclinical platform for evaluating therapeutic efficacy against colorectal adenocarcinoma, leveraging a cell line with canonical APC, TP53, and KRAS mutations that closely mirrors the molecular landscape of human colon cancer. At Alfa Cytology, we specialize in delivering validated SW480 cell line-derived xenograft (CDX) models tailored to your drug discovery and translational research needs. Our experienced team provides end-to-end preclinical services---from model establishment and tumor monitoring to comprehensive endpoint analysis---ensuring reproducible, high-quality data to accelerate your oncology pipeline.

Overview of SW480 Xenograft Model for Colon Cancer

The SW480 cell line was originally established from a primary colorectal adenocarcinoma resected from a 50-year-old male patient and has since become one of the most widely utilized models in colorectal cancer research. Genetically, SW480 harbors hallmark mutations in APC, TP53, and KRAS (G12V), which collectively drive constitutive Wnt/beta-catenin signaling, impaired apoptotic responses, and sustained proliferative signaling through the MAPK and PI3K pathways. These cells exhibit classic epithelial morphology, produce carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and cytokeratin, and retain tumorigenic capacity in immunodeficient mice with moderate growth kinetics. Compared to its isogenic counterpart SW620---derived from a metastatic lesion of the same patient---SW480 represents an earlier stage of tumor progression, displaying lower metastatic potential, reduced tumorigenicity, and heightened sensitivity to FAS- and TNF-alpha-mediated apoptosis.

In xenograft settings, SW480 tumors typically form gland-like structures that closely recapitulate the histopathological features of human colorectal adenocarcinomas. The model has demonstrated translational relevance across multiple therapeutic modalities, including EGFR-targeted agents such as cetuximab, Wnt/beta-catenin pathway inhibitors, and combination chemotherapy regimens. Its defined genetic background, consistent engraftment rates, and differential drug response profile make SW480 an essential preclinical tool for studying tumor biology, evaluating novel therapeutics, and investigating mechanisms of therapeutic resistance in colorectal cancer.

Figure 1. Systematic profiling of lysine lactylation proteome in SW480 cells. (Cheng, Zhe, et al., 2024)

Cell Line Information: SW480

The following table summarizes the key characteristics of the SW480 cell line, providing essential reference information for researchers planning preclinical studies utilizing this model.

Our Services

Alfa Cytology offers a comprehensive SW480 xenograft model service designed to support your preclinical oncology research from study design through data delivery. Our capabilities include subcutaneous and orthotopic implantation, real-time tumor volume monitoring via digital caliper and bioluminescence imaging, and a full suite of endpoint analyses including histopathology, immunohistochemistry, biomarker quantification, and pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic assessments. With rigorous quality control, validated protocols, and flexible study customization, we ensure that every project generates robust, publication-ready data to advance your therapeutic candidates efficiently and reliably.

Workflow of SW480 Xenograft Model Construction

Establishment of the SW480 xenograft model follows a standardized, quality-controlled workflow that ensures reproducible tumor growth and reliable pharmacological readouts. The process encompasses cell preparation, animal implantation, in-life monitoring, and endpoint analysis, with each step optimized to maintain model integrity and data quality.

1. Cell Line Authentication and Preparation: SW480 cells are authenticated via STR profiling and confirmed Mycoplasma-negative prior to use. Cells are expanded under standard culture conditions, harvested at 70-80% confluence, and resuspended at a concentration of 5 x 10^6 to 1 x 10^7 cells per 100-200 microL in PBS or serum-free medium, with or without Matrigel supplementation to enhance engraftment efficiency.
2. Animal Selection and Preparation: Immunodeficient mice (e.g., BALB/c nude, NOD/SCID, or NSG) aged 5-8 weeks are acclimated for at least one week under specific pathogen-free (SPF) conditions. Animals are randomized into treatment groups using a random number generator, with each mouse assigned a unique identification number to ensure unbiased allocation.
3. Tumor Cell Implantation: The prepared SW480 cell suspension is subcutaneously injected into the right flank or dorsal region of each mouse using a sterile 1 mL syringe with a 25-27 gauge needle. Injection volume typically ranges from 100 to 200 microL per mouse. For orthotopic models, cells may be surgically implanted into the cecal wall under anesthesia.
4. In-Life Monitoring and Tumor Measurement: Following implantation, animals are monitored daily for health status, body weight, and signs of distress. Tumor dimensions are measured two to three times per week using digital calipers, and tumor volume is calculated using the formula: Volume (mm^3) = (length x width^2) / 2. Tumor growth curves are plotted to track engraftment success and growth kinetics.
5. Randomization and Treatment Initiation: Once tumors reach a palpable size of approximately 75-125 mm^3, mice are randomized into vehicle control and treatment cohorts. Test compounds are administered according to the predefined dosing schedule (e.g., intraperitoneal, intravenous, or oral gavage), with dosing frequency and duration tailored to the pharmacological properties of each agent.
6. Endpoint Analysis and Tissue Collection: At study termination, mice are humanely euthanized according to IACUC-approved protocols. Tumors are excised, weighed, photographed, and processed for downstream analyses. Tissues are preserved via snap-freezing, RNA-Later immersion, or 10% neutral buffered formalin (NBF) fixation for histopathology, immunohistochemistry, molecular profiling, and biomarker quantification.

Figure 2: Schematic workflow illustrating the derivation and construction of the SW480 Xenograft Model at Alfa Cytology.

Case Study-SW480 Xenograft Model Development

In a representative preclinical study, SW480 cells were subcutaneously implanted into immunodeficient mice to evaluate the antitumor efficacy of a novel therapeutic candidate. Following successful engraftment and randomization at a mean tumor volume of approximately 100 mm^3, animals received the test compound or vehicle control according to a predefined dosing regimen over a multi-week treatment period. Throughout the study, tumor growth was monitored via serial caliper measurements, and body weights were recorded to assess treatment tolerability. At endpoint, tumor burden was significantly reduced in the treatment group compared to vehicle controls, with corresponding decreases in tumor weight and volume. Histopathological examination of excised tumors revealed altered proliferation and apoptosis markers, supporting the mechanism of action hypothesized from in vitro data. This case study demonstrates the utility of the SW480 xenograft model in generating robust, translational preclinical data to support the advancement of novel colorectal cancer therapeutics.

Why Choose Alfa Cytology?

Alfa Cytology combines scientific expertise, operational excellence, and client-centric flexibility to deliver preclinical tumor model services that meet the highest standards of quality and reproducibility. Our SW480 xenograft model service is designed to provide actionable data that accelerates your drug development timeline.

• Validated, authenticated SW480 cell lines with confirmed genetic identity and Mycoplasma-free status ensure model reliability from the outset.
• Standardized xenograft protocols with optimized cell concentrations, implantation techniques, and Matrigel supplementation achieve high engraftment rates and consistent tumor growth kinetics.
• Real-time tumor monitoring using digital calipers and optional bioluminescence imaging provides precise, longitudinal growth data throughout the study duration.
• Comprehensive endpoint analysis---including H&E histopathology, IHC for proliferation and apoptosis markers, and molecular profiling---delivers mechanistic insights alongside efficacy readouts.
• Flexible study design accommodates subcutaneous, orthotopic, and metastatic model configurations, as well as combination therapy and pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic assessments.
• All studies are conducted in AAALAC-accredited facilities under strict IACUC oversight, ensuring ethical compliance and data integrity.
• Dedicated project management and transparent communication keep you informed at every stage, with customized reporting tailored to your regulatory and publication requirements.

Contact Us

Ready to advance your colorectal cancer research with a validated SW480 xenograft model? Contact us today to discuss your study requirements, receive a customized proposal, and learn how Alfa Cytology can support your preclinical drug development goals with reliable, high-quality data. Our team is here to help you reach out to us at any time---we look forward to partnering with you on your next oncology project.

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