Experimental models for testing respiratory tract carcinogens.

The usefulness of the mouse, rat, and Syrian golden hamster as experimental models for studies of the development of respiratory tract cancer is considered. Three different application methods for examining the effects of environmental chemicals on the respiratory tract in these species are discussed: implantation, intratracheal instillation, and inhalation. The results of various investigations are presented to demonstrate that each particular method has both advantages and disadvantages. The techniques are also considered in comparison with the human situation and in the light of obtaining the most valid data for extrapolation to man. Brief attention is paid to the relevance to respiratory tract carcinogenesis of more recently developed organ and cell culture systems.