Progression of Head and Neck Cancer in an In Vitro Model

Abstract

Transformation of IHGK cells resulted in the activation of vascular endothelial growth factor associated with angiogenesis. Inactivation of the G(1) cell cycle regulation occurred during immortalization and before transformation, and was sustained after carcinogen exposure. These alterations correspond to changes observed in patients with head and neck squamous cell carcinoma. This model can be useful in testing novel therapeutic and preventive strategies.