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Updated: Aug 9, 2026
Patient Derived Cell Culture and Isolation of CD133+ Putative Cancer Stem Cells from Melanoma
Published on: March 13, 2013
[Establishment and characterization of a melanoma cell line HME1]
Shang-Hui Wu1, Bai-Ying Huang, Huan-Hua Gu
1Department of Cell Biology, Xiangya School of Medicine, Central South University, Changsha 410078, China. wsh8856@163.com
Objective:
To establish a melanoma cell line and identify its characteristics in vitro.
Methods:
The tissues from biopsies of melanoma were performed primary culture. After growing to 90% confluence, the cells were detached and transferred to another flask for subculture, and then we identified their characteristics including growth kinetic, morphology and tumorigenecity.
Results:
This cell line was cultivated for more than 90 times. Its characteristics were as follows:The pathological morphology of the tumor transplanted in nude mice were similar to that of the original lesion;The growth curves of the 20th passage were determined, and the population doubling time calculated was 56.9 h; The cloning efficiency in soft agar was 19.1%; Karyo-type analysis showed aneuploidy with the modal chromosomal number 85-102; Electronmicroscopical observation showed that there were rich microvilli on the surface of the cells, abundant ribosomes and melanoid grain; SP immunohistochemical staining showed that the cells expressed HMB-45.
Conclusion:
The Melanoma cells were immortalized after being cultured in vitro and a new melanoma cell line was established.
Insights
A new melanoma cell line was established and characterized in vitro. This immortalized cell line provides a valuable tool for melanoma research and drug development.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Cell Biology
- Dermatology
Context:
- Melanoma is a significant form of skin cancer.
- Establishing reliable cell lines is crucial for cancer research.
- In vitro models are essential for studying cancer biology and testing therapies.
Purpose:
- To establish a novel melanoma cell line from patient biopsies.
- To characterize the in vitro properties of the newly established melanoma cell line.
- To assess its suitability for further research.
Summary:
- A melanoma cell line was successfully established through primary culture and subculturing.
- Characterization included morphology, growth kinetics (doubling time 56.9 h), cloning efficiency (19.1%), aneuploidy (modal chromosome number 85-102), and HMB-45 expression.
- Tumorigenicity in nude mice showed pathological similarity to the original lesion.
Impact:
- Provides a new, characterized melanoma cell line for in vitro studies.
- Facilitates research into melanoma pathogenesis and mechanisms.
- Supports the development and testing of novel melanoma therapies.
