Characterization of a Wilms' tumor model.

Growth characteristics, survival time, sex differences and hormonal effects, and various biochemical parameters were evaluated in a transplantable Furth/Wistar rat Wilms' tumor model. Survival time was dependent on site of tumor transplant and ranged from a mean of 28 days for intrarenal implantation to 44 days intramusculary. Maximum tumor weight (130 g) was obtained via subcutaneous implant. Lung metastasis was evident in the majority of animals with the exception of those receiving the tumor implant intraperitoneally. The levels of erythropoietin and serum calcium and phosphatase were comparable to control values whereas hematocrit levels declined. Tumor tissue arginase or total protein remained unchanged during tumor growth. In these same tissues DNA, content and 5-alpha-reductase activity significantly and progressively increased with concomitant tumor growths. Measurements of lactic dehydrogenase, alkaline phosphatase, and their isoenzymes indicated patterns of liver involvement which were not macroscopically evident. After 31 days of subcutaneous tumor transplant, male and female rats had tumors of comparable weights. Orchiectomy or estradiol treatment significantly reduced tumor weight in males. In female rats testosterone treatment significantly increased tumor weights. DNA concentration in tumor tissue was unaffected by treatment. Similiarly, although 5-alpha-reductase activity was higher in tumors from males, and arginase higher in females, these enzymes were not affected by surgical or hormonal treatment.