Squamous Epithelial Proliferation Induced by Walleye Dermal Sarcoma Retrovirus Cyclin in Transgenic Mice

The study explored the impact of the walleye dermal sarcoma virus (WDSV) cyclin on cell proliferation by using transgenic mice expressing this cyclin. These mice showed notable changes, such as reduced size, severe alopecia, and lactation issues in females. They developed significant squamous epithelial hyperplasia and dysplasia, with lesions resembling neoplastic squamous epithelium, particularly at injury sites. The presence of the WDSV cyclin in basal epithelial cells was associated with increased cell proliferation, unlike human cyclin D1. This research provided evidence that the WDSV cyclin could stimulate cell proliferation and induce hyperplastic skin lesions, offering insights into viral-mediated carcinogenesis and the role of viral cyclins in tumor development.