Formation of metastasis by human breast carcinoma cells (MCF-7) in nude mice.

MCF-7 cells, a human breast carcinoma line, forms tumors when injected into athymic nude mice. These tumors are able to metastasize to lungs, liver and spleen. 17 beta-estradiol treatment increases both the growth rate and frequency of metastases. Castration or diabetes prevents metastasis formation, but treatment with estrogen or insulin restores the metastasizing capacity. MCF-7 cells secrete into the culture media collagenases able to lyse types I and IV collagens. Estrogen or insulin addition to the culture enhances collagenase production. Attention is called to the coexistence of enhancement in collagenase production and metastasis formation.