Xenograft transplantation of human malignant astrocytoma cells into immunodeficient rats: an experimental model of glioblastoma

Author(s)

Miura, Flavio Key ^[1] ; Ferreira Alves, Maria Jose ^[1] ; Rocha, Mussya Cisotto ^[1] ; da Silva, Roseli ^[1] ; Oba-Shinjo, Sueli Mieko ^[1] ; Nagahashi Marie, Suely Kazue ^[1]

Affiliation

^[1] Univ Sao Paulo, Mol & Cellular Biol Lab, LIM 15, Fac Med, Sao Paulo - Brazil

• Document type: Journal article
• Source: Clinics; v. 65, n. 3, p. 305-309, MAR 2010.
• Web of Science Citations: 13

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Astrocytic gliomas are the most common intracranial central nervous system neoplasias, accounting for about 60% of all primary central nervous system tumors. Despite advances in the treatment of gliomas, no effective therapeutic approach is yet available; hence, the search for a more realistic model to generate more effective therapies is essential. OBJECTIVE: To develop an experimental malignant astrocytoma model with the characteristics of the human tumor. METHOD: Primary cells from subcutaneous xenograft tumors produced with malignant astrocytoma U87MG cells were inoculated intracerebrally by stereotaxis into immunosuppressed (athymic) Rowett rats. RESULTS: All four injected animals developed non-infiltrative tumors, although other glioblastoma characteristics, such as necrosis, pseudopalisading cells and intense mitotic activity, were observed. CONCLUSION: A malignant astrocytoma intracerebral xenograft model with poorly invasive behavior was achieved in athymic Rowett rats. Tumor invasiveness in an experimental animal model may depend on a combination of several factors, including the cell line used to induce tumor formation, the rat strains and the status of the animal's immune system. (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 04/12133-6 - Search for molecular markers related to the diagnosis and prognosis of tumors of the central nervous system
• Grantee: Suely Kazue Nagahashi Marie
• Support Opportunities: Research Projects - Thematic Grants