Effect of perfluorochemicals on tissue PO2 levels in a subcutaneous 9L rat glioma model

: The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of perfluorochemicals(Fluosol-43) and/or oxygen on tissue PO2 levels in a subcutaneous 9L rat glioma model. Thirty days after subcutaneous implantation of 9L cells in to the flank of Fisher 344 rats, tumors contained large central areas of necrosis and showed a heterogeneity in tissue PO2 levels. Tissue PO2 levels in the solid area, border area, and necrotic area were about 45 mmHg, 5 mmHg, and 0 mmHg respectively. More significant elevation of tissue PO2 levels of about 30 mmHg in hypoxic areas was found in the perfluorochemicals and oxygen group than in the oxygen group alone (p less than 0.001). It was suggested that perfluorochemicals with oxygen enhanced the oxygenation of hypoxic areas and might enhance the sensitivity of the hypoxic area of tumor tissue to anti-cancer drugs and radiation treatment.