Brief Communication : Prenatal Induction of Neurogenic Tumors in Hamsters by Precursors Ethylurea and Sodium Nitrite 2

Abstract

The simultaneous peroral administration of precursors ethylurea and sodium nitrite to pregnant hamsters on day 12 through 15 of gestation induced neurogenic tu mors in the peripheral nervous system of their offspring. Since female progeny had a significantly higher tumor incidence (69%) and a greater multiplicity of neurogenic tumors than males (12.5%), the possible influence of estrogens on the growth and development of these neoplasms is discussed.