- Animal Models of Liver Cancer: Current Status and Application in Preclinical Research
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Hye-Lim Ju, Simon Weonsang Ro
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J Liver Cancer. 2017;17(1):1-14. Published online March 31, 2017
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.17998/jlc.17.1.1
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Abstract
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- Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one of the most common cancers worldwide. HCC develops
in various causes – Viral hepatitis infection, toxins, or other liver conditions - by activation of
oncogenes and/or inactivation of tumor suppressors. Understanding of signal pathways and
protein-protein interactions critical in tumor development may lead to novel treatment strategy.
To evaluate the progression of HCC and effects of potential therapies, various animal models
have been established. Experimental models of HCC provide valuable tools to investigate the
risk factors, new treatment modalities and biologic characteristics. Subcutaneous xenograft
models have been widely used in the past. However, with the advancement of in vivo imaging
technology, investigators are more concerned with the orthotopic models nowadays.
Genetically engineered mouse models have greatly facilitated studies of gene function in
HCC development. Lately, a novel approach for stable gene expression in mouse hepatocytes
by hydrodynamic injection has been developed. Each model has its own advantages and
disadvantages. Therefore, selecting the optimal models based on study objectives is necessary.
In this review, we highlight both the frequently used mouse models and some emerging ones
with emphasis on their merits or defects, and give advices for investigators to choose a ‘‘best-fit’’
animal model in HCC research.
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