In view of the possible role of platelets and coagulation mechanisms in the growth and dissemination of solid tumors, a number of haematological parameters have been followed during development of an experimental syngeneic tumor in mice (Lewis Lung Carcinoma, 3LL). This tumor, when transplanted intramuscularly in C57,B1/6 mice, grows locally and gives spontaneous metastases to the lungs. The transplanted animals survive for about 4 weeks. Metastases are visible since the third week. A slight but constant increase in plasma fibrinogen level and a marked thrombocytopenia were observed starting during the second week after tumor implantation. No other significant changes in coagulation and fibrinolysis parameters were found. Moreover, the animals developed a marked haemolytic anaemia, possibly microangiopathic in origin. 125I-fibrinogen survival was decreased of about 20% during the second week after tumor implantation and was not further reduced later on. Fibrinogen turnover was accelerated since the second week and was further increased thereafter, being more than doubled at the end of the third week. Labelled fibrinogen accumulated in the primary tumor and in the lungs; its rats of disappearance from the tumor was much slower than from lungs or blood. These data suggest the occurrence of a low-grade, localized fibrinogen consumption (intravascular coagulation ?). 51Cr-platelet survival was not modified throughout the observation period, whereas platelet turnover was markedly reduced since the end of the second week, suggesting a defective platelet production. 51Cr-red cell survival was drastically reduced to about 30% of controls starting from the second week, whereas labelled red cell turnover was almost doubled. The pathogenetic relevance of the observed modifications in the processes of grwoth and dissemination of 3 LL remains to be established.(Supported by Grant NIH-PHRB-IRO1 CA 12764–01.
Band 3, the human red cell chloride/bicarbonate anion exchanger (AE1, SLC4A1), in a structural context