COX

The COX cell line is a reference B-lymphoblastoid cell line (B-LCL) derived from a human donor and transformed with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). It is frequently used in immunogenetics and histocompatibility research due to its inclusion in the International Histocompatibility Working Group (IHWG) panels. The COX cell line represents a specific major histocompatibility complex (MHC) haplotype, HLA-A1-B8-Cw7-DR3-DQ2, associated with susceptibility to autoimmune diseases such as type 1 diabetes, systemic lupus erythematosus, and myasthenia gravis. This haplotype is notable for its high degree of linkage disequilibrium, making the cell line an essential model for studying MHC-related genetic associations.

The genomic sequence of the COX haplotype has been completely characterized as part of the MHC Haplotype Project. It spans approximately 4.8 Mb, encompassing the class I, II, and III regions of the MHC, as well as the extended class I region. Detailed sequencing revealed over 16,000 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) and numerous structural variations, providing insights into the genetic architecture of this region. The COX cell line's comprehensive MHC characterization makes it a key resource for understanding immune system function and the genetic basis of HLA-associated diseases.

In research, the COX cell line is used for fine mapping of disease-associated loci within the MHC, as well as for functional studies on antigen processing and presentation. Its well-defined genetic profile allows for comparative studies with other MHC haplotypes, aiding in the identification of disease risk variants and potential therapeutic targets. Additionally, the cell line is involved in the evaluation of new sequencing and genotyping technologies, serving as a standard reference in immunogenetic studies.

37°C, 5% CO₂, humidified atmosphere.

1. Confirm that the vial remains deeply frozen upon delivery, as cells are shipped on dry ice to maintain optimal temperatures during transit.

2. Upon receipt, either store the cryovial immediately at temperatures below -150°C to ensure the preservation of cellular integrity, or proceed to step 3 if immediate culturing is required.

3. For immediate culturing, swiftly thaw the vial by immersing it in a 37°C water bath with clean water and an antimicrobial agent, agitating gently for 40-60 seconds until a small ice clump remains.

4. Perform all subsequent steps under sterile conditions in a flow hood, disinfecting the cryovial with 70% ethanol before opening.

5. Carefully open the disinfected vial and transfer the cell suspension into a 15 ml centrifuge tube containing 8 ml of room-temperature culture medium, mixing gently.

6. Centrifuge the mixture at 300 x g for 3 minutes to separate the cells and carefully discard the supernatant containing residual freezing medium.

7. Gently resuspend the cell pellet in 10 ml of fresh culture medium. For adherent cells, divide the suspension between two T25 culture flasks; for suspension cultures, transfer all the medium into one T25 flask to promote effective cell interaction and growth.

8. Adhere to established subculture protocols for continued growth and maintenance of the cell line, ensuring reliable experimental outcomes.

Mycoplasma contamination is excluded using both PCR-based assays and luminescence-based mycoplasma detection methods.

To ensure there is no bacterial, fungal, or yeast contamination, cell cultures are subjected to daily visual inspections.

For long-term preservation, place vials in vapor-phase liquid nitrogen at about −150 to −196 °C. Storage at −80 °C is acceptable only as a short interim step before transfer to liquid nitrogen.

Cryopreserved cell lines are shipped on dry ice in validated, insulated packaging with sufficient refrigerant to maintain approximately −78 °C throughout transit. On receipt, inspect the container immediately and transfer vials without delay to appropriate storage.

At Cytion, we stand behind the quality and viability of our products. We guarantee that our cells will be viable at the start of culture for 60 days after shipment from our facilities. We assure that all materials conform to the specifications described in the Certificate of Analysis and/or Product Sheet.

For full details, please refer to our Warranty Statement.