TLDR K6/ODC transgenic mice are effective for quickly identifying cancer-causing chemicals.
The study demonstrated that K6/ODC transgenic mice, which overexpress ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) in hair follicle keratinocytes, served as a sensitive model for identifying genotoxic carcinogens. The model showed 100% concordance with traditional 2-year rodent bioassays when tested with 10 known carcinogens or noncarcinogens. Notably, it successfully identified human carcinogens and demonstrated tumor development at low doses of 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene (DMBA). This model offered advantages such as shorter test times and fewer animals, making it a promising tool for carcinogen identification and chemical risk assessment.
233 citations,
July 1997 in “PubMed” High levels of ornithine decarboxylase can cause tumors in mouse skin.
37 citations,
January 1986 in “Carcinogenesis” ODC expression in mouse skin and tumors is varied and can be inhibited by retinoic acid or cycloheximide.
48 citations,
June 2000 in “Japanese Journal of Cancer Research” Dimethylarsinic acid speeds up skin tumor growth in certain mice.
8 citations,
August 2014 in “Biochemical and Biophysical Research Communications” ODC overexpression in hair cells increases tumor growth by reducing Notch signaling.
13 citations,
December 2001 in “Journal of Investigative Dermatology” Overexpressing ornithine decarboxylase and v-Ha-ras in keratinocytes leads to invasiveness and malignancy.
10 citations,
August 2013 in “Experimental Dermatology” Hairless protein and putrescine regulate each other, affecting hair growth and skin balance.
52 citations,
May 1997 in “Journal of Biological Chemistry” High ornithine decarboxylase levels may lead to hair loss and cancer by increasing CK2 activity in the nucleus.
