SYSTEMIC INSTIGATION SYSTEMS TO STUDY TUMOR GROWTH OR METASTASIS

摘要

The present invention provides tumor instigation systems that can be used to characterize tumor growth and/or metastasis. In some embodiments, the present invention provides a method for studying tumor outgrowth or metastasis including the steps of: (a) providing an animal host; (b) introducing into the animal host one or more cells that instigate the growth of an otherwise indolent tumor; (c) introducing into the animal host a tumor; wherein the presence of the one or more cells or a progeny thereof in the animal host enhances the growth and/or metastasis of the tumor. Among other things, the inventive methods and systems in accordance with the present invention can be used to identify modulators and/or contributors of tumor growth or metastasis, as well as diagnostic and/or therapeutic agents for use in monitoring and/or modulating tumor growth and/or metastasis.