Distribution of alpha-fetoprotein-producing cells and proliferating cells in human hepatoma cells transplanted into athymic mice.

To clarify the relationship between alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) production and cell growth in hepatocellular carcinoma an immunohistochemical method was used to examine the geographical distribution of AFP-producing cells and DNA-synthesizing cells in hepatoma tissue which was formed by subcutaneous transplantation of the human hepatoma cell line, HuH-7, into athymic mice. DNA-synthesizing cells were localized to the perivascular restricted areas where AFP-producing cells were preferentially demonstrated. The fall of the labeling index of bromodeoxyuridine was accompanied by a decrease in AFP production. The results indicate that AFP is produced mainly by the cells participating in tumor growth but not by quiescent cells.