Bicistronic DNA construct comprising X-myc transgene for use in production of transgenic animal model systems for human hepatocellular carcinoma and transgenic animal model systems so produced

摘要

The present invention relates to a bicistronic DNA construct comprising X-myc transgene. In particular, the present invention relates to a bicistronic X15-myc transgene capable of expressing truncated X protein and a full-length murine c-myc protein. More particularly, the present invention relates to a bicistronic DNA construct being an X15-myc transgene for use in the production of transgenic animal model systems for human hepatocellular carcinoma and transgenic animal model systems so produced. The invention is based partially on the discovery that in susceptible transgenic mice that carry a bicistronic X-myc transgene there is an accelerated formation of liver tumors involving all lobes.