Hen Model of Ovarian Cancer and Mesothelin Antibodies
Author Information
Author(s): Yu Yi, Edassery Seby L, Barua Animesh, Abramowicz Jacques S, Bahr Janice M, Hellstrom Ingegerd, Luborsky Judith L
Primary Institution: Rush University Medical Center
Hypothesis
Hen tumors express mesothelin and that circulating anti-mesothelin antibodies occur in response to tumors.
Conclusion
The results support the utility of the hen as a novel model for preclinical studies of mesothelin as a biomarker and a target for immunotherapy.
Supporting Evidence
- 57% of hen ovarian tumors expressed mesothelin mRNA.
- 44% of hens with mesothelin mRNA positive tumors had circulating anti-mesothelin antibodies.
- No mesothelin mRNA was detected in normal ovaries.
Takeaway
Hens can develop ovarian cancer similar to humans, and they produce antibodies against a protein called mesothelin found in these tumors.
Methodology
Mesothelin mRNA expression was analyzed by RT-PCR, protein expression was evaluated by immunohistochemistry and Western blots, and anti-mesothelin antibodies were assessed by immunoassay.
Participant Demographics
White Leghorn laying hens, aged 2.5-3 years.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.039 (1:100 dilution), 0.030 (1:200 dilution)
Statistical Significance
p < 0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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