Tobias May, InSCREENeX GmbH, Braunschweig, Germany
Introduction
A major limitation of current research is the shortage of physiologically relevant cells. To generate cells in sufficient numbers in vitro cell expansion is an attractive alternative. We developed an immortalization regimen allowing the efficient and reproducible establishment of novel cell lines. The technology allows the generation of cell lines from different cell types, from different species and from different donors.
Results
With the help of this technology, we developed various novel cell lines from different cell types like e.g. murine intestinal epithelial cells, endothelial cells from different sources, chondrocytes, mesenchymal stem cells, lung epithelial cells. In side-by-side comparisons with primary cells, we could demonstrate that cell-type specific expression as well as cell type specific functions are maintained in these functionally immortalized cell lines. Importantly, the cellular phenotype of the functionally immortalized cell lines was stable throughout the whole cultivation period. Therefore, these cell systems are the ideal basis for the development of robust bioassays. In proof of concept studies, we established such assays in 2D and 3D for endothelial (e.g modulation of angiogenesis) and epithelial cells (e.g. barrier formation).
Conclusion
Our results demonstrate that the functional immortalization technology provides physiologically relevant cells in sufficient numbers needed e.g. for drug discovery, ADME/Tox testing and in the long term for regenerative medicine approaches.
