U-251 MG

The U-251 MG cell line is a well-characterized human glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) cell line that is extensively used in neuro-oncology research. Derived originally from a 75-year-old Caucasian male, this cell line has been instrumental in the study of brain tumors, particularly in understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying malignant gliomas. The U-251 MG cells exhibit astrocytic properties, which are characteristic of their origin from astrocytes, the predominant cell type involved in GBM.

Genetically, U-251 MG cells harbor mutations and alterations typical of high-grade astrocytomas, including mutations in the TP53 gene and loss of heterozygosity in chromosome 10, which encompasses the PTEN gene. These genetic traits contribute to the cell line’s utility in studying tumor suppressor gene functions and the cellular pathways involved in tumor progression and resistance. The cells are also known for their robust in vitro growth rates and ability to form tumors when xenografted into immunocompromised mice, making them a valuable model for in vivo studies of tumor growth, invasion, and therapy response.

Furthermore, U-251 MG has been employed in a multitude of studies focusing on therapeutic approaches, including chemotherapy resistance, radiation therapy outcomes, and the evaluation of novel anticancer compounds. Its extensive use in translational research highlights its relevance in bridging basic neuroscientific discoveries with clinical applications, particularly in the development of targeted therapies for glioblastoma.

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.