Objective To establish the model of hepatic VX2 tumor in rabbits and to offer the experimental evidences for the application of the model.
Methods The hepatoma model was reproduced with VX2 cell lines in rabbits. The method to reproduce the model was improved. The changes of liver function (ALT, AST and TB) were determined at a different phase. Tumor’s growth and metastases, pathological changes, images and spontaneous survival time of the animal were observed.
Results The tumors could grow up to 1.5-2.0 cm in diameter in 3 weeks after implanting. The successful rate of implantation was 100%. Nodular enhanced echo was found in the liver by color ultrasound. CT scans showed the low density foci in liver, while enhanced CT scans demonstrated asymmetrical intensification in the foci. Macroscopic observation showed that the tumors were grayish white in color and felt harder, necrotic foci was present in the center of tumor. Observation with light microscope showed that the tumor cells’ nucleoplasm proportion was great, tumor cells arranged irregularly, and the tumors displayed invasive growth and no obvious envelope around them. Animals’ spontaneous survival time was 40-53 days. The cause for their death was multiple system organ failure.
Conclusion In pathological morphology, pathological process and prognosis, the hepaticVX2 tumors in rabbits are similar to human hepatocarcinoma. It has such characteristics as easy reproduction, short growth period, high success rate, high stability and so on. The model is an ideal hepatoma model in animals.
Citation： FAN Linjun,HE Zhenping,MA Kuansheng,HUANG Xiaolan,LI Rui,FENG Xiaobin,DONG Jiahong. Reproduction and Evaluation of Hepatic VX2 Tumor Model in Rabbits. CHINESE JOURNAL OF BASES AND CLINICS IN GENERAL SURGERY, 2004, 11(1): 45-48. doi: Copy