Epidermal growth factor, renin, and peptidase in cultured tumor cells of submandibular gland origin.

Dimethylbenz[a]anthracene was injected into the submandibular glands of male Swiss-Webster mice. From tumors obtained, three cell lines were established. Immunocytochemical stainings revealed epidermal growth factor, renin, and peptidase in a significant portion of cultured tumor cells. In addition, the presence of epidermal growth factor was demonstrated by radioimmunoassays. Since epidermal growth factor, renin, and peptidase are localized in the granular convoluted tubules in mouse submandibular gland, the data suggest that the granular convoluted tubule cells are the targets of chemical carcinogens.