Tumor necrosis factor effects on ascites formation in an experimental tumor model

In humans, treatment of malignant ascites with bolus TNF leads to resolution of the ascites. In an experimental model NMRI nude mice were inoculated intraperitoneally with human NIH-OVCAR3 adenocarcinoma cells, resulting in production of ascites and intraperitoneal tumor growth. Ascites formation and tumor growth after IP injection of recombinant human TNF was determined. Depending on the treatment schedule, a dual effect of TNF on the development of ascites was seen. Doses of TNF (1-10 micrograms/g) given once per week completely prevented ascites production, whereas the same doses of TNF given on a daily schedule induced enhanced ascites formation in an inverse TNF dose relationship. The area of tumor cell-covered peritoneal lining corresponded to these findings, indicating a correlation of tumor mass with ascites production. In an attempt to prevent renewal of ascites after drainage, neither inhibition nor enhancement in ascites production was seen when TNF was given five times per week. However, doses of 10 micrograms/g of TNF once per week led to almost complete inhibition of ascites reappearance. Histological examination of animals that received repeated TNF treatment demonstrated chronic peritonitis with strong stromal proliferation, angiogenesis, and increased adhesion of tumor cells to the peritoneum.