Thoracic Neuroblastoma: A Novel Surgical Model for the Study of Extra-adrenal Neuroblastoma

Background/aim: Neuroblastoma is clinically and molecularly heterogeneous, with poor outcomes despite multimodal treatment strategies. The primary tumor site is an independent predictor of survival; adrenal tumors have the worst outcomes, while posterior mediastinum tumors carry a more favorable prognosis.

Materials and methods: To elucidate the role of the primary tumor microenvironment in mediating survival outcomes, we developed a mouse model for the study of extra-adrenal neuroblastoma by injecting luciferase-tagged cells into either the subpleural space of the posterior chest or the adrenal gland.

Results: Solid tumors developed in the thoracic cavity at the same rate and efficiency as the adrenal as early as one week post-surgery. The survival rate following surgery was equivalent, though the physiological tolerance for large tumors was lower in the thoracic group.

Conclusion: This novel mouse model of survivable extra-adrenal neuroblastoma will enable future investigations of the distinct tumor microenvironments between the adrenal gland and posterior mediastinum.