Calu-6 Human Non-Small Cell Lung Adenocarcinoma Model

By Gunisha Arora, Ph.D., Medical and Scientific Writer, Scientific Development

The complexity of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) adenocarcinoma necessitates robust preclinical models for developing effective therapies. This profile spotlights the CALU-6 cell line, a widely characterized model crucial for investigating this challenging disease.

Derived from a patient with anaplastic lung carcinoma, the CALU-6 model is particularly valuable because it harbors key genetic alterations, including KRAS codon 61 mutation and TP53 inactivation. This makes it an ideal system for studying KRAS-driven lung cancers, which often resist conventional treatments.

When grown in vivo as subcutaneous xenografts, the model forms poorly differentiated carcinomas, providing a relevant microenvironment for testing anti-tumor efficacy. Its validated standard of care profile includes reproducible responses to chemotherapies, targeted agents, and checkpoint inhibitors.