Implantation and growth of epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor expressing human ovarian cancer xenografts in nude mice is dependent on EGF.

Abstract

The importance of epidermal growth factor (EGF) receptor-dependent growth has not been clarified for in vivo growth of primary human ovarian cancers. Seventeen primary human ovarian cancer tissue samples were examined for the presence of EGF receptors by a 125I-EGF-binding study. Three groups of mice were inoculated with EGF receptor expressing and not-expressing cancer tissues. The groups were as follows: control group, Sx group (mice that underwent sialoadenectomy; EGF depleted mice), and Sx+EGF (EGF-replaced) group. The ability of the inoculated tissues to implant and grow then was studied. Of the 17 primary ovarian cancers, 12 expressed EGF receptors and 5 did not. Eight of 12 EGF-receptor expressing cancer tissues implanted and formed growing tumors in control animals. None implanted in the Sx animals. Epidermal growth factor receptor-expressing cancers implanted in Sx animals that received EGF administration. Two of five EGF receptor-negative ovarian cancers implanted and grew in both control and Sx animals. Growth of EGF receptor-expressing primary human ovarian cancers may be dependent on EGF in vivo.