[Induction of alpha-fetoprotein synthesis in highly differentiated spontaneous hepatomas in mice]

Highly differentiated spontaneous hepatomas of 13-15-month-old CBA mice are not capable to produce embryo-specific serum protein--alpha-fetoprotein (AFP). AFP synthesis is induced in such tumors by minimal mechanical injuries (application of mild incisions to the tumor nodes). On the third day after surgery AFP-positive cells are detectable in two zones: 1) along the inflammatory area in the peripheral parts of incisions; 2) near large blood vessels that drain the involved parts. It is suggested that the mechanism of AFP synthesis regulation in highly differentiated hepatomas is identical to that in the normal liver and is related to local structural rearrangements.