[Utilization of chromosomal markers in cancer research]

The mouse is an unsuitable species for cytogenetical studies to the extent that it has 40 acrocentric chromosomes and the only criterion which could be used to differentiate them is size. We envisaged using in the case of cell grafts donors or recipients of different sex. This technique has, however, been used to a limited extent. Among the other markers which have been utilized, T6T6 of CBA mice must be mentioned. The discovery in 1966 by Léonard and Dekundt of the presence in AKR mice of fusions of the Robertson type (between chromosomes 6 and 15) has generated new interest in experimental work based on the utilisation of chromosome markers. Being interested in the mechanisms of radio-induced leukemia, the authors described how they have introduced the chromosome marker of AKR mice into the C57B1 strain which is very sensitive to the induction of radio-induced leukemias.