Smad7 induces hepatic metastasis in colorectal cancer
2008

Smad7 Induces Liver Metastasis in Colorectal Cancer

Sample size: 18 publication Evidence: high

Author Information

Author(s): Halder S K, Rachakonda G, Deane N G, Datta P K

Primary Institution: Vanderbilt-Ingram Cancer Center, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine

Hypothesis

The study aims to understand the role of Smad7 in the metastasis of colorectal cancer to the liver.

Conclusion

The study demonstrates that overexpression of Smad7 in colon cancer cells promotes liver metastasis.

Supporting Evidence

  • 17 out of 18 control mice did not show any metastasis in the liver.
  • 76% of mice from Smad7-expressing clones produced liver metastases.
  • Smad7 overexpression was verified by western blot analyses.

Takeaway

When certain cancer cells have too much Smad7, they can spread to the liver and grow there.

Methodology

The study used a splenic injection model in athymic nude mice to assess liver metastasis from colon adenocarcinoma cells expressing Smad7.

Participant Demographics

Athymic nude mice were used in the study.

Statistical Information

P-Value

p<0.0001

Statistical Significance

p<0.0001

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1038/sj.bjc.6604562

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