Degree
Master of Science
Program
Anatomy and Cell Biology
Supervisor
Dr. Alp Sener
Abstract
Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) is characterized by Von Hippel-Lindau (VHL)-deficiency, resulting in pseudohypoxic, angiogenic and glycolytic tumours. Hydrogen sulfide (H2S) is an endogenously-produced gasotransmitter that accumulates under hypoxia and has been shown to be pro-angiogenic and cytoprotective in cancer. It was hypothesized that H2S levels are elevated in VHL-deficient ccRCC, contributing to survival, metabolism, and angiogenesis. Using H2S-specific probes, it was found that H2S levels were higher in VHL-deficient ccRCC cell lines compared to cells with wild-type VHL. Inhibition of H2S-producing enzymes could reduce the proliferation, metabolism and survival of ccRCC cell lines, as determined by live-cell imaging, XTT/ATP assay, and flow cytometry, respectively. Using the chorioallantoic membrane angiogenesis model, it was found that systemic inhibition of endogenous H2S production was able to decrease vascularization of VHL-deficient ccRCC xenografts. Endogenous H2S production is an attractive new target in ccRCC due to its involvement in multiple aspects of disease.
Recommended Citation
Sonke, Eric, "Investigating the role of hydrogen sulfide in the survival, growth and angiogenic potential of clear cell renal cell carcinoma cell lines and xenografts" (2015). Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository. 2879.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/etd/2879
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Biological Phenomena, Cell Phenomena, and Immunity Commons, Cancer Biology Commons, Medical Cell Biology Commons, Oncology Commons
