Establishment and characterization of NCC-MFS6-C1: a novel patient-derived cell line of myxofibrosarcoma

A novel patient-derived immortalised cell line of myxofibrosarcoma: a tool for preclinical drugs testing and the generation of near-patient models

BACKGROUND

Myxofibrosarcoma is a rare malignant soft tissue sarcoma characterised by multiple local recurrence and can become of higher grade with each recurrence. Consequently, myxofibrosarcoma represents a burden for patients, a challenge for clinicians, and an interesting disease to study tumour progression. Currently, few myxofibrosarcoma preclinical models are available.

METHODS

In this paper, we present a spontaneously immortalised myxofibrosarcoma patient-derived cell line (MF-R 3). We performed phenotypic characterization through multiple biological assays and analyses: proliferation, clonogenic potential, anchorage-independent growth and colony formation, migration, invasion, AgNOR staining, and ultrastructural evaluation.

RESULTS

MF-R 3 cells match morphologic and phenotypic characteristics of the original tumour as 2D cultures, 3D aggregates, and on the chorioallantoic membrane of chick embryos. Overall results show a clear neoplastic potential of this cell line. Finally, we tested MF-R 3 sensitivity to anthracyclines in 2D and 3D conditions finding a good response to these drugs.

CONCLUSIONS

In conclusion, we established a novel patient-derived myxofibrosarcoma cell line that, together with the few others available, could serve as an important model for studying the molecular pathogenesis of myxofibrosarcoma and for testing new drugs and therapeutic strategies in diverse experimental settings.

Modeling Myxofibrosarcoma: Where Do We Stand and What Is Missing?

Myxofibrosarcoma (MFS) is a malignant soft tissue sarcoma (STS) that originates in the body's connective tissues. It is characterized by the presence of myxoid (gel-like) and fibrous components and typically affects patients after the fifth decade of life. Considering the ongoing trend of increasing lifespans across many nations, MFS is likely to become the most common musculoskeletal sarcoma in the future. Although MFS patients have a lower risk of developing distant metastases compared with other STS cases, MFS is characterized by a high frequency of local recurrence. Notably, in 40-60% of the patients where the tumor recurs, it does so multiple times. Consequently, patients may undergo multiple local surgeries, removing the risk of potential amputation. Furthermore, because the tumor relapses generally have a higher grade, they exhibit a decreased response to radio and chemotherapy and an increased tendency to form metastases. Thus, a better understanding of MFS is required, and improved therapeutic options must be developed. Historically, preclinical models for other types of tumors have been instrumental in obtaining a better understanding of tumor development and in testing new therapeutic approaches. However, few MFS models are currently available. In this review, we will describe the MFS models available and will provide insights into the advantages and constraints of each model.