Multiple cell lines from patients with malignant melanoma: morphology, karyology, and biochemical analysis

Of 23 cell lines representing 8 patients with malignant melanoma, one cell line from each patient has been extensively characterized by means of phase morphology, ultrastructural morphology, biochemical markers, steroid receptor protein analysis, and steroid hormone production. Extensive cytogenetic characterization was compiled from seven of the eight cell lines. The melanocytic derivation of the tumor cell lines was supported by the detection of the catecholamines epinephrine, norepinephrine, and dopamine. In addition, well-defined melanosomes were present in six of the seven lines whose ultrastructure were examined morphologically. None of the lines produced alpha-fetoprotein chorionic gonadotropin, or carcinoembryonic antigen in detectable amounts. The individuality of the cell lines was confirmed by phenotypic patterns of isozymes and by karyology.