Overall from previous and current tumor analyses using different dosing regimens, carcinogens, and strains of mice, a panel of common transcripts (e.g. Arg1, Areg, Ereg, Ccr2, Cdkn1a, Gja1, Ptgis, Spp1) may provide a useful tool for early diagnosis of lung neoplasm. The gene discussed is SPP1; the disease is neoplasm.