Experimental VX2 Rabbit Liver Tumor Model in Carbon Tetrachloride-Induced Cirrhosis of the Liver

Liver cirrhosis is a major underlying factor in the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. Currently, there is an unmet need for midsize experimental vertebrate models that would offer reproducible implantable liver tumors in a cirrhotic liver background. This study establishes a protocol for a syngeneic rabbit model of VX2 liver cancer with underlying liver cirrhosis induced using carbon tetrachloride (CCl₄). Male New Zealand white rabbits (n = 3) received CCl₄ by intragastric administration once weekly. Concentrations started at 5% v/v CCl₄ dissolved in olive oil. CCl₄ dosing was progressively increased every week by 2.5% v/v increments for the duration of treatment (16 weeks total). VX2 tumors were then orthotopically implanted into the left hepatic lobe and allowed to grow for 3 weeks. Cross-sectional imaging confirmed the presence of hepatic tumors. Gross and histopathological evaluations showed reproducible tumor growth in the presence of liver cirrhosis in all animals.