Abstract
One of the most striking features of the Xenopus system is the versatility in providing a unique range of both in vitro and in vivo models that are rapid, accessible and easily manipulated. Here we present an overview of the diverse contribution that Xenopus has made to advance our understanding of tumour biology and behaviour; a contribution that goes beyond the traditional view of Xenopus as a developmental model organism. From the utility of the egg and oocyte extract system to the use of whole embryos as developmental or induced tumour models, the Xenopus system has been fundamental to investigation of cell cycle mechanisms, cell metabolism, cell signalling and cell behaviour, and has allowed an increasing appreciation of the parallels between early development and the pathogenesis of tumour progression and metastasis. Although not the prototypical oncological model system, we propose that Xenopus is an adaptable and multifunctional tool in the oncologist׳s arsenal.
Highlights
We present an overview of the diverse contribution that Xenopus has made to advance our understanding of tumour biology and behaviour; a contribution that goes beyond the traditional view of Xenopus as a developmental model organism
Not the prototypical oncological model system, we propose that Xenopus is an adaptable and multifunctional tool in the oncologist's arsenal
From an understanding of the basics of cell division and differentiation, through oncogene function and cancer aetiology, to characterisation of the molecular pathogenesis and metabolic derangements of cancer, these insights from Xenopus may translate into therapeutic benefits in the form of new prospective diagnostic tests or chemotherapeutics
Summary
One of the most striking features of the Xenopus system is the versatility in providing a unique range of both in vitro and in vivo models that are rapid, accessible and manipulated. We present an overview of the diverse contribution that Xenopus has made to advance our understanding of tumour biology and behaviour; a contribution that goes beyond the traditional view of Xenopus as a developmental model organism. Since the 1950s, Xenopus laevis has become the most widely used amphibian research organism (Schmitt et al, 2014), with unique versatility in providing a range of both in vitro and in vivo models that are rapid, accessible and manipulated. The collective use of Xenopus oocytes, egg extracts, cell cultures and whole embryos in cancer research has made valuable contributions to understanding tumour biology, as well as improving therapeutic options in both diagnostics and chemotherapeutics
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