Characterization of the Hen as a Model for Human Ovarian Cancer
Abstract
Investigation of basic factors involved in malignant transformation of the ovary has been hampered by the lack of an appropriate animal model. Most animals, with the exception of the domestic hen, do not spontaneously develop ovarian cancer. The use of two related genetic strains, which differ in spontaneous incidence of ovarian cancer may reveal an important difference between the two strains that could underlie the differential susceptibility to ovarian cancer We have accumulated many hens of both strains and have observed an increasing incidence of the tumors with age The C strain of hens was found to have a significantly higher plasma level of estradiol compared to the K strain. This was in spite of no difference in progesterone or laying rate. All ovarian tumors that we have examined express ovalbumin which may indicate that de-differentiation occurs during the disease process. Ovarian surface epithelial cells, the presumed site of origin of the tumors, express estrogen and progesterone receptors. Ovarian tumors also express progesterone receptors, associated with the glandular areas of proliferation. Finally, the transcription factor COUP-TFII which regulates ovalbumin production, is present in RNA isolated from tumor cells.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2004
- Accession Number
- ADA429761
Entities
People
- Patricia A. Johnson
Organizations
- Cornell University