Subcutaneously transplanted human pancreatic cancer tissue fragments in a mouse model

Objective To establish a mouse model by transplanting subcutaneously human pancreatic cancer tissue fragments. Methods Surgically resected pancreatic cancer tissue fragments from patients were transplanted into NOD/SCID mice subcutaneously, and then the growth of the tumor and transplanting it into the next generation were observed.The growth rate, HE staining and immunohistochemistry staining of Ki67 and VEGF were compared. Results We have obtained 13 cases of pancreatic cancer tissues and 6 cases of biopsy specimens.In 5 cases transplantation was successful, in one mouse model passing to fourth generation, in 4 models to second generation.With the increase of generaions, tumor growth accelerated. HE staining showed later passage cells behavior in an identical manner as the primary cells. Immunohistochemistry staining showed that expressions of Ki67 and VEGF are increasing. Conclusions Through transplanting human pancreatic cancer tissue fragments directly, we have constructed mouse model of pancreatic cancer successfully. With the passage of subculture, the malignant degree and invasiveness may increase. Key words: Pancreatic neoplasms; Models, animal; Subcutaneous xenograft