Variable osteogenic performance of MC3T3-E1 subclones impacts their utility as models of osteoblast biology

The spontaneously immortalized murine calvarial cell line MC3T3-E1 and its derivative subclones are widely used models of osteoblast biology. Many investigators have reported conflicting data under seemingly similar experimental conditions, though the specific subclone studied is often not specified. The purpose of this study was to directly compare the commercially available MC3T3-E1 subclones 4, 14, and 24 in terms of responsiveness to osteogenic induction media and/or stimulation with rhPTH[1-34]. We assayed osteogenic gene expression, capacity to deposit and mineralize a collagenous matrix, and the expression and signaling function of PTH1R. Our data demonstrate that each subclone bears little functional resemblance to the others, or to primary calvarial osteoblasts. Specifically, whereas subclone 4 is responsive to PTH stimulation and capable of matrix mineralization, subclones 14 and 24 do not faithfully replicate these key aspects of osteoblast biology. Furthermore, little overlap was observed between the gene expression profile of subclone 4 and primary calvarial osteoblasts. Our experience working with these cell lines demonstrates that the MC3T3-E1 derived cell lines are imperfect models of osteoblast biology, and reinforce the importance of clearly articulating selection and reporting of research materials.