Foreign DNA integration--perturbations of the genome--oncogenesis

We have been interested in the consequences of foreign DNA insertion into established mammalian genomes and have initially studied this problem in adenovirus type 12 (Ad12)-transformed cells or in Ad12-induced hamster tumors. Since integrates are frequently methylated de novo, it appears that they might be modified by an ancient defense mechanism against foreign DNA. In cells transgenic for the DNA of Ad12 or for the DNA of bacteriophage lambda, changes in cellular methylation and transcription patterns have been observed. Thus, the insertion of foreign DNA can have important functional consequences that are not limited to the site of foreign DNA insertion. These findings appear to be relevant also for tumor biology and for the interpretation of data derived from experiments with transgenic organisms. For most animals, the main portal of entry for foreign DNA is the gastrointestinal tract. Large amounts of foreign DNA are regularly ingested with the supply of nutrients. Starting in 1987/1988, we have been investigating the fate of orally administered foreign DNA in mice. Naked DNA of bacteriophage M13 and the cloned gene for the green fluorescent protein (GFP) of Aequorea victoria have been used as test molecules. Moreover, the plant-specific gene for the ribulose-1,5-bisphosphate carboxylase (rubisco) has been followed in mice after feeding soybean leaves. At least transiently, food-ingested DNA can be traced to different organs and, after transplacental transfer, to fetuses and newborns. There is no evidence for germ line transmission or for the expression of orally administered GFP DNA.