Pancreas Tumor Implantation in Mice

Begin by preparing aliquots of syngeneic KPC tumor cells at the required concentration. Store this cell suspension in an insulin syringe on ice. Next, transfer an anesthetized mouse to a sterile surgical hood and position it in a partial right lateral decubitus position.

Secure the limbs with paper tape. Sterilize the mouse's abdomen with antiseptic. Use forceps and castroviejo scissors to make a 10 to 15-millimeter-long left subcostal skin incision.

Control hemostasis as necessary by using cotton swabs. Use a cautery pen to cauterize the vessels. Next, divide the underlying muscle to enter the peritoneum.

Externalize the pancreas and spleen with sterile cotton swabs to prevent tissue damage. Splay the pancreas out to prevent folding. Identify the tumor injection point in the body or tail of the pancreas.

After careful positioning of the pancreas, hold the tissue with forceps and insert the insulin syringe tip about four to five millimeters with the bevel side up. Then, inject the tumor cell solution slowly. A successful injection will be evident by the formation of a small bubble.

Conclude the procedure by carefully returning the pancreas to the abdomen, making sure not to disturb the bubble. After closing the incision site, return the mouse to a clean cage placed under a heating lamp. Administer antibiotics in drinking water to prevent any infection.

Allow the tumor to develop for a period of 10 to 14 days until it is palpable through the abdominal wall.