Methods for analysis of the immune system in mouse cancer models.

Abstract

Leukocytes of both the innate and adaptive immune systems can be a prominent feature of the tumor microenvironment. Mouse models of cancer that allow for tumor development in a host with a competent immune system can be investigated to gain a richer understanding of cancer immunobiology. Such studies not only provide biological insight but also can help forge new strategies for therapy and prognostication of patients. Here, we introduce several experimental protocols designed to analyze the immune phenotype of mouse cancer models. These include flow cytometric approaches to define tumor-infiltrating immune populations with precision and tissue-based assessments that preserve and reveal spatial dimensions of host-tumor cell interactions. An approach to study the immune-suppressive capability of myeloid cells in the tumor microenvironment is also provided.