[Human tongue carcinoma model established in nude mice by orthotopic transplantation and studies on its major biological properties]

Abstract

Objective: To establish clinically relevant animal model of human tongue carcinoma.

Methods: Cell suspensions of human tongue squamous cell carcinoma cell line (Tca8113) were inoculated orthotopically into nude mice and the growing tumors were serially passaged by orthotopic transplantation. The oral cavity, mandible and neck of the nude mice were sectioned and examined histologically. The ultrastructure and chromosome of the tumors were also investigated.

Results: 1. The success rate of transplant was 90%. 2. The mouse-growing tumors exhibited the same identical properties as the donor tumor. 3. Human tongue cancer cells could grow in the homologous oral cavity site of nude mice, extended and metastasized to adjacent tissues and lymph node of the neck.

Conclusion: The model can be useful for evaluating biological behavior and new therapeutics for tongue cancer.