Cultured cell line

Cultured cell line

A cultured cell line refers to a group of cells that are grown in a lab, typically in a controlled environment. These cells are derived from a single cell and hence, are genetically identical. They are used extensively in research and are critical for studying the biology of health and disease.

History[edit | edit source]

The first cultured cell line was established by Alexis Carrel in 1913. He was able to maintain cultures of chick heart cells for many years. This was followed by the development of the HeLa cell line in 1951, which was derived from a cervical cancer patient. The HeLa cell line is still in use today and has been instrumental in many scientific breakthroughs.

Types of Cultured Cell Lines[edit | edit source]

There are several types of cultured cell lines, each with their own unique characteristics and uses. These include:

Primary cell lines: These are derived directly from tissue and have a limited lifespan. They are often used in research because they closely resemble the cells in the body.

Immortal cell lines: These are cell lines that have been modified to proliferate indefinitely. They are often used in research because they provide a consistent and unlimited source of cells.

Cancer cell lines: These are derived from cancerous tissue and are used to study the biology of cancer and test potential treatments.

Stem cell lines: These are derived from stem cells and can differentiate into a variety of cell types. They are used in research to study development and disease.

Uses of Cultured Cell Lines[edit | edit source]

Cultured cell lines are used in a wide range of research areas. They are used to study cell biology, genetics, and disease mechanisms. They are also used in drug discovery and development, where they are used to test the efficacy and safety of potential new drugs.

Challenges and Limitations[edit | edit source]

While cultured cell lines are a valuable tool in research, they also have limitations. They may not fully represent the complexity of cells in the body, and their behavior can change over time. Additionally, there is a risk of contamination with other cell lines, which can lead to misleading results.

References[edit | edit source]

Cultured cell line Resources
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