Figure 6

The effect of sTGF-βR on secondary flank tumors in a model of metastatic disease. In all graphs, tumor volume was calculated by the formula (π*long axis*short axis*short axis)/6 and displayed as mean volume (mm³). Error bars represent standard error of the mean (SEM). (A). Groups of mice (n=5) bearing small, established AB12 tumors (150 mm³) received IP injections of IgG2a (control) or sTGF-βR(TGF-β-blockade), once every 3 days, for a total of 6 doses (marked by hatched bar). After 3 doses of either IgG2a or sTGF-βR, 1x10⁶ AB12 cells were inoculated into the opposite flank to model “metastatic foci”. An arrow shows the time point when secondary tumor cell injection was performed. Tumor volume was subsequently measured over time. Established primary flank tumors in mice treated with sTGF-βR were significantly smaller than tumors in control animals treated with IgG2a at multiple time points (* = p < 0.05). (B). The volume (mm³) of secondary flank tumors was measured for up to 4 weeks post-inoculation. Secondary tumors in animals treated with sTGF-βR were significantly smaller than secondary tumors in control animals treated with IgG2a at multiple time points (* = p < 0.05).