MDA-MB-231

The MDA-MB-231 cell line is a widely used model in breast cancer research. Derived from a human breast adenocarcinoma, these cells are characterized by their aggressive and invasive nature, making them an ideal model for studying triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). MDA-MB-231 cells lack estrogen receptors (ER), progesterone receptors (PR), and HER2 amplification, which are typical markers used to classify and treat breast cancers. Consequently, these cells are resistant to hormonal therapies, reflecting the clinical challenges faced in managing TNBC. Their mesenchymal-like phenotype and ability to form tumors in immunocompromised mice further contribute to their utility in cancer research.

Genetically, MDA-MB-231 cells harbor mutations in key oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes such as TP53, KRAS, and BRAF. These genetic alterations play a crucial role in driving their malignancy and metastatic potential. Researchers use this cell line to investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying cancer progression, metastasis, and drug resistance. MDA-MB-231 cells are also employed in high-throughput screening for potential therapeutic agents, as their aggressive behavior provides a stringent test for new anti-cancer drugs. The cell line's robust response to various stimuli makes it an invaluable tool for deciphering the complex biology of triple-negative breast cancer.

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.