Catechol interferes with TGF‐β‐induced elimination of transformed cells by normal cells: Implications for the survival of transformed cells during carcinogenesis

Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
We have recently shown that TGF-β-treated normal fibroblasts are able to induce apoptosis of transformed fibroblasts, leading to their elimination. Here we describe a test system that allows the quantitative analysis of the elimination of G418-resistant transformed cells by TGF-β-treated normal cells. This assay system was used to screen for substances that interfere with the elimination of transformed cells. Catechol and hydro-quinone, but not resorcinol, were found to represent potent antagonists of TGF-β-induced elimination of transformed cells by normal cells. Protection of transformed cells from negative effects derived from their cellular environment defines a hitherto unrecognized crucial mechanism for the survival of transformed cells. The protective effect of catechol as seen in this experimental system may act in concert with its co-carcinogenic and promoting activities during carcinogenesis.