Abstract: Objective To establish animal model of prolactinoma with Fischer 344 (F344) rats.MethodsFemale F344 rats were injected with estradiol benzoate-treated and 0.9% sodium chloride respectively. After 50 days of treatment, MRI scan was performed and animal's living status was observed, and pituitary weight, serum prolactin level, pathological and PRL immunohistochemistry changes were also detected.ResultsAll estradiol benzoate-treated rats formed the prolactinoma after treatment for 50 days and the growth of body weight was retarded obviously. Pituitary weight and serum PRL increased significantly in estradiol benzoate-treated animals compared with those treated with 0.9% sodium chloride. Pituitary adenomas were found in MRI scan and HE stain was positive. The forming rate of tumor was 100%.ConclusionThe animal model of pituitary adenoma established with F344 rat has more characters such as having a short tumor forming period, easy and stable, and coincided with features of prolactinoma.

Key words: pituitary adenoma, prolactinoma, estrogen, Fischer 344 rat, animal model