The genetic basis of susceptibility to lung tumors in mice.
This is the first in a series of review articles describing the current state of research on mouse lung tumorigenesis. The system is valuable as a biological model for studying stages of tumor development and the interaction of genetic and environmental factors which dispose towards neoplasia. Additionally, these tumors are analagous to bronchiolo-alveolar cancer in man. Three pulmonary adenoma susceptibility (Pas) genes regulate susceptibility; 1 of these is the proto-oncogene, K-ras2. Candidates for the other 2 genes include the H-2 histocompatibility locus and genes which regulate the basal proliferative rate of the cells from which these tumors arise. Tumor development is favored by a depressed immune system, immature age, and decreased levels of circulating corticosterone.
Malkinson
A M
AM
Molecular and Environmental Toxicology Program, School of Pharmacy, University of Colorado, Boulder 80309.
D000818:Animals; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D011905:Genes, ras; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D008175:Lung Neoplasms / Q000235:genetics*; D051379:Mice; D008815:Mice, Inbred Strains