Abstract Objective
Ameloblastoma is a representative
odontogenic tumor comprising several characteristic invasive forms, and its pathophysiology has not been sufficiently elucidated. A stable
animal experimental model using immortalized
cell lines is crucial to explain the factors causing differences among the subtypes of
ameloblastoma, but this model has not yet been disclosed. In this study, a novel
animal experimental model has been established, using immortalized
human ameloblastoma-derived
cell lines.
Methodology Ameloblastoma cells suspended in Matrigel were subcutaneously transplanted into the
heads of immunodeficient
mice. Two immortalized
human ameloblastoma cell lines were used AM-1
cells derived from the plexiform type and AM-3
cells derived from the follicular type. The
tissues were evaluated histologically 30, 60, and 90 days after
transplantation. Results
Tumor masses formed in all transplanted
mice. In addition, the
tumors formed in each group transplanted with different
ameloblastoma cells were histologically distinct the
tumors in the group transplanted with AM-1
cells were
similar to the plexiform type, and those in the group transplanted with AM-3-
cells were
similar to the follicular type. Conclusions A novel, stable
animal experimental model of
ameloblastoma was established using two
cell lines derived from different subtypes of the
tumor. This model can help clarify its pathophysiology and hasten the development of new
ameloblastoma treatment strategies.