Cell Immortalization

Overview

Primary cells reach senescence after a limited number of population doublings, thus scientists frequently need to re-establish fresh cultures from explanted tissue - a tedious process. To use the same consistent cells throughout a research project, scientists need primary cells with extended replicative capacity, or immortalized cells.

Several methods exist for immortalizing mammalian cells in culture. Viral genes, including Simian virus 40 (SV40) T antigen, Epstein Barr virus (EBV), Adenovirus E1A and E1B, and human Papilomavirus (HPV) E6 and E7 can induce immortalization in different cell types. SV40 T antigen has been shown to be the most simple and reliable agent for the transformation of many different cell types in culture. The mechanism of SV40 T antigen in cell immortalization is well studied. For the most part, viral genes achieve immortalization by inactivating the tumor suppressor genes (p53, Rb and others) that can induce a replicative senescent state in cells. Recent studies have also shown that SV40 T antigen can induce Telomerase activity in the infected cells.

The list of cell immortalization products includes plasmids, retro- and andenoviral vectors containing SV40 T antigens. We also offer ready-to-use recombinant retroviruses and adenoviruses. All these tools will make your cell immortalization project simpler and easier than ever before.

All our retroviral vectors are derived from Moloney Murine Leukemia Virus (MoMuLV).

For safety issues related to recombinant lentiviruses please refer to the guidance documents available at the site of Office of Biotechnology Activities (NIH).  Please click here.