Skin tumor formation in the European hamster (Cricetus cricetus L.) after topical initiation with 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA) and promotion with 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate (TPA)

Initiation with the carcinogen 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene followed by promotion with the hyperplasiogenic phorbol ester 12-O-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate carried out on the dorsal skin of European hamsters (Cricetus cricetus L.) led to the formation of a broad spectrum of skin tumors in terms of a two-stage principle. Tumor formation involved the epidermis and its appendages, the connective tissue, and the vascular and pigmentary system. With regard to the sensitivity to initiation with DMBA alone and initiation with DMBA and promotion with TPA the European hamster occupies a special position since all of the DMBA-TPA sensitive two-stage target organs known from the mouse, rabbit, Syrian golden hamster and rat are combined in this animal.