Related Experiment Videos
Microfilaments in epidermal cancer cells
The Journal of Cell Biology
|February 1, 1974
Summary
Researchers studied microfilaments in mouse skin cancer induced by 3,4-benzpyrene. These filaments, sensitive to cytochalasin B, may drive cancer cell motility and invasion.
Area of Science:
- Cell Biology
- Cancer Research
- Electron Microscopy
Background:
- Epidermal cancers in mice were induced using 3,4-benzpyrene.
- Malignant transformation is associated with cellular changes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the occurrence and structure of microfilaments in chemically induced epidermal cancers.
- To correlate microfilament characteristics with malignant cell behavior.
Main Methods:
- Electron microscopy was used to examine the ultrastructure of cells in induced epidermal cancers.
- Cells were treated with cytochalasin B to assess microfilament response.
Main Results:
- Pleomorphic, undifferentiated cells with abundant cortical microfilaments increased with malignancy.
- Microfilaments (40 Å diameter) were located in the cell cortex, processes, and microvilli.
- Cytochalasin B treatment caused microfilament clumping, disruption, and blunting of cell processes/microvilli.
Conclusions:
- The observed microfilaments share structural and cytochalasin B sensitivity characteristics with those involved in cell motility.
- The presence of these microfilaments in malignant cells suggests a role in their invasive and motile properties.