A fibroblast cell line is a group of fibroblast cells that have been cultured in vitro and can be maintained and propagated for extended periods. Fibroblasts are a type of cell found in the connective tissue of animals and play a crucial role in the synthesis of the extracellular matrix and collagen production, which provide structural support to tissues and organs.
Fibroblast cell lines are often used in scientific research because they are relatively easy to grow and maintain in the laboratory. They serve as valuable tools for studying various cellular processes, including cell growth, differentiation, migration, and response to stress or injury. Researchers also use fibroblast cell lines to investigate the molecular mechanisms involved in diseases such as cancer, fibrosis, and wound healing, and to test the effects of drugs and other experimental treatments.
There are several well-known fibroblast cell lines, including:
- NIH 3T3: A mouse embryonic fibroblast cell line commonly used for transfection and transformation studies.
- L929: A mouse fibroblast cell line used for cytotoxicity and biocompatibility testing, as well as for the production of certain biological factors.
- WI-38 and MRC-5: Human lung fibroblast cell lines derived from fetal tissue, often used in vaccine development and as models for studying cellular senescence and aging.
