Differences in EGF related radiosensitisation of human squamous carcinoma cells with high and low numbers of EGF receptors
1991

EGF and Radiosensitivity in Human Squamous Carcinoma Cells

Sample size: 4 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): T.T. Kwok, R.M. Sutherland

Primary Institution: SRI International

Hypothesis

EGF related radiosensitisation is dependent on EGF receptor density.

Conclusion

Higher EGF receptor density enhances radiosensitivity in certain human squamous carcinoma cells.

Supporting Evidence

  • EGF inhibited the growth of A431, CaSki, and HN5 cells, but stimulated the growth of SiHa cells.
  • Radiosensitivity enhancement was observed in A431, CaSki, and HN5 cells with EGF treatment.
  • Mouse 3T3 cells with low EGF receptors were not sensitised by EGF.

Takeaway

EGF helps some cancer cells be more sensitive to radiation, but it only works if those cells have a lot of EGF receptors.

Methodology

Four human squamous carcinoma cell lines were irradiated and their survival was measured using a clonogenic assay.

Limitations

The study primarily focused on only four cell lines and may not be generalizable to all cancer types.

Participant Demographics

Human squamous carcinoma cell lines.

Statistical Information

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

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