Carcinogenesis from polymer implants: new aspects from chromosomal and transplantation studies during premalignancy.

Inbred CBA/H and CBA/H-T6 mice received implants of 15 X 22 mm plastic films. Plastic inserts and tissue capsules were cut in thirds at half monthly and monthly intervals. The first portion of the inserts and capsules was left in the original animal. The second portion was separated and individually transplanted into recipients that differed from the original animals with respect to the T6 marker chromosome. The third portion and all tumors which developed in original and recipient animals were examined by karyological, histological, and cultural methods. Film pieces caused tumors in recipient animals up to 9 months after transfer, capsule tissue only up to about 1 month after transfer. Tumors in original and corresponding recipient animals were identical in their chromosomal stemlines and pace of premalignant maturation. The karyotype of the stemline was never discovered among the film-attached cell population because there seemed to be no cell division. This points to the existence of a single, specific premalignant cell clone residing on the film surface in a dormant state of nondivision many months before tumor appearance. At the end, the (pre)malignant cells detached from the film, invaded the capsule tissue, and propagated to produce the tumor within about 4 weeks. The existence of a specific inhibition phenomenon during the premalignant phase is suggested.