Characterization of a Transitional Type of Pancreatic Atypical Acinar Cell Foci (AACF) Induced by Azaserine in Rats

Authors: Haydar ÖZTAŞ, Bojan FLAKS

Abstract: Multiple and single intraperationeal injection of azaserine in male Leeds rats induced atypical acinar cell foci. These foci were classified histologically into two population, basophilic and acidophilic. The earliest observed microscopic lesions display morpholic characteristics of acinar cells which they apparently arise. It has been reported that the existence of two phenotypically different populations of atypical acinar cell foci with differing proliferative capicities in pancreases of rats. 0nly a small fraction of these lesions appear to have the potential to into neoplasms. Several question concerning these two pupulation of foci are still unknown, what is the relation if any between acidopophilic and basophilic foci. In previous studies it has been speculated that basophilic foci may be capable of progression to acidophilic foci and these foci may be involved in the induction of pancreatic cancer. In this study one unusual atypical acinar cell focus was observed that could represent a transitional type of atypical acinar cell foci (AACF).

Keywords: Rat, AACF, Pancreas, cancer.