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A Mouse Model to Investigate the Role of Cancer-Associated Fibroblasts in Tumor Growth
Published on: December 22, 2020
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Using methylcholanthrene-induced fibrosarcomas to study tumor immunology
S N Lauder1, S Milutinovic1, A Pires1
1Division of Infection Immunity, Cardiff University School of Medicine, Cardiff, United Kingdom.
Methods in Cell Biology
|March 31, 2021
Summary
This study details protocols for using 3-methylcholanthrene (MCA) to induce in situ tumors in mice. These models develop realistic tumor microenvironments, crucial for cancer research and therapy testing.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Immunology
- Animal Models
Background:
- Mouse cancer models are vital for understanding tumor development, immune responses, and testing therapies.
- Current solid tumor models often lack a recapitulated human tumor microenvironment.
- In situ tumor development offers a more biologically relevant model system.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide detailed protocols for inducing tumors using 3-methylcholanthrene (MCA) in mice.
- To outline methods for monitoring MCA-induced tumors.
- To describe downstream applications for analyzing these tumors.
Main Methods:
- Administration of the carcinogen 3-methylcholanthrene (MCA) to mice.
- In situ tumor development, allowing for the formation of a tumor microenvironment.
- Monitoring tumor growth and characteristics.
- Protocols for downstream analyses.
Main Results:
- MCA administration successfully induces in situ tumors in mice.
- These tumors develop a stroma and vasculature, mimicking human cancer microenvironments.
- Established protocols facilitate reproducible tumor generation and analysis.
Conclusions:
- MCA-induced mouse tumors provide a valuable platform for studying tumor microenvironment.
- These models are suitable for preclinical testing of novel anti-cancer therapies.
- Detailed protocols enhance the utility of MCA models in cancer research.
