An Improved Protocol for Establishment of AML Patient-Derived Xenograft Models

Patient-derived xenografts (PDXs) are the most valuable tool for preclinical drug testing because they retain the genetic diversity and phenotypic heterogeneity of the original tumor. Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) remains difficult to engraft in immunodeficient mice. This is particularly true for long-term frozen patient specimens. This protocol is designed to establish PDXs of human AML with improved engraftment rates. The optimized approach increases the viability of patient cells before implantation, efficiently monitors in vivo engraftment, and maximizes bone marrow collection. For complete details on the use and execution of this protocol, please refer to Salik et al. (2020) and Lynch et al. (2019).