Abstract:

Objective

To establish a suitable， large transplanted model of VX2 carcinoma in rabbit tongue for experimental study and observe its biological features.

Methods

Twenty-four New-Zealand white rabbits， each weighing about 2.8～3.2 kg， were transplanted with the VX2 carcinoma tissue pieces into the middle third of the lateral border of the tongue. All the tumour-bearing rabbits were randomly divided into two batches. Animals of group 1（n＝6） were randomly sacrificed at day 3，7， 14， 21， 28， and 35 after implantation， respectively， and the biological features were observed by macroscopical and pathohistological examination. Animals of group 2 （n＝14） were observed for the nature survival time.

Results

The successful rate of transplanted tumours is 83.3% （20／24）.Histopathology and electronic microscope photographs indicated that the implanted tumour grew locally and exponentially at lingual recipient sites， aggressed and diffused interstitially， and infiltrated into the normal interstitial space as well， which is similar with biological properties of VX2 squamous cell carcinoma being transplanted in the other sites of rabbits.

Conclusions

With modalities of tumour tissue pieces， the transplanted model of VX2 carcinoma in the rabbit tongue was established successfully. This model has the characteristics of high tumor take-rate， steady biological properties，and rapid growth. Its properties resemble that in human， which can be useful for evaluating biological behavior and new therapeutics for tongue cancer.

Key words: Tongue Neoplasms, VX2, Squamous cell carcinoma, Disease Models, Animal