Mesotheliomas are rare but increasingly important malignant neoplasms which occur almost exclusively in persons exposed to asbestos. The lesions are difficult to diagnose and universally fatal. Our understanding of the pathogenesis of mesotheliomas is limited. Although animal models exist, they have not been studied comprehensively from the perspective of the biology of the tumor and the factors that play a role in neoplastic transformation of mesothelial cells. In this investigation, we will study tumors induced in rats with crocidolite to evaluate in detail the evolution and location of the asbestos-induced lesions in the pleura of the lung. The lesions will studied histologically and cytologically, using a variety of morphologic techniques. Cells in preneoplastic and neoplastic lesions will be evaluated and attempts made to determine their biologic properties by appropriate in vitro techniques and transplantation into syngeneic animals. This investigation will provide an in-depth insight into the mechanisms of neoplastic transformation of the mesothelium and attempt to explain how asbestos plays a pathogenetic role in this neoplastic process.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Cancer Institute (NCI)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
5R01CA036993-03
Application #
3174667
Study Section
Pathology B Study Section (PTHB)
Project Start
1984-03-01
Project End
1987-11-30
Budget Start
1986-03-01
Budget End
1987-11-30
Support Year
3
Fiscal Year
1986
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
University of Vermont & St Agric College
Department
Type
Schools of Medicine
DUNS #
066811191
City
Burlington
State
VT
Country
United States
Zip Code
05405