International Mammalian Genome Society

The 14th International Mouse Genome Conference (2000)

Table of Contents * Genes, Physical Mapping and Sequencing * Gene Identification * Bioinformatics * Common Resources * RIKEN Session * Functional Genomics * Complex Traits * Mutagenesis * Developmental Genetics and Differentiation * Verne Chapman Memorial Lecture I and II

G23. Genetic Analysis of Azoxymethane-Induced Colorectal Cancer

Pearsall, R.S.¹, Hicks, D. ², Amann, V. ², Teng, C.-H.^{, 2} and Threadgill, D.W. ^1
1Department of Genetics, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC 27599
²Department of Cell Biology, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN USA 37209

We are using the mouse as a model system to study the development of colorectal cancer. We have administered azoxymethane (AOM), a potent carcinogen, to mice and are following the progression of the specific colorectal cancers which are formed. The tumors appear to follow a similar pattern of progression as human tumors, making this an attractive model system for analysis. We have established baseline readings for AOM susceptibility in 15 strains of inbred mice. As expected, there is variability in susceptibility to AOM treatment among these strains, indicating the presence of specific genetic modifiers in different strains. We are analyzing the basis of AOM-induced colorectal cancer susceptibility in genetic crosses of mice with different susceptibilities. We have established an A/J x M. spretus x A/J backcross to identify susceptibility loci and an A/JxSWR/J F2 intercross population to identify potential genetic factors contributing to changes in tumor progression. We will present preliminary data on the progress made thus far in the analysis of these crosses.