T47D cells are a human cell line maintained in laboratories for scientific investigation. These cells originated from breast cancer tissue and have become one of the most widely utilized models for studying this disease. Their consistent behavior and well-understood properties make them an invaluable tool for researchers to understand and combat breast cancer.
Origin and Key Characteristics
The T47D cell line was established in 1974 from the pleural effusion of a patient with breast cancer. This origin provides a direct link to human disease, making the cells highly relevant for translational research. Scientists cultivate these cells to maintain their original characteristics for reproducible experiments.
T47D cells are classified as a “luminal A” subtype of breast cancer. This classification indicates that the cells exhibit a strong expression of hormone receptors. Specifically, T47D cells are positive for both the estrogen receptor (ER) and the progesterone receptor (PR), meaning their growth and proliferation are influenced and stimulated by these hormones.
T47D cells have a mutation in the p53 tumor suppressor gene (L194F). The p53 gene normally plays a role in preventing tumor formation by regulating cell growth and death. This mutation alters the p53 protein, impacting its normal function and contributing to the cancerous phenotype.
Laboratory Cultivation and Morphology
Scientists cultivate T47D cells under specific laboratory conditions for consistent growth and viability. The cells are typically grown in a specialized liquid mixture known as RPMI-1640 medium, providing necessary nutrients for cell survival and proliferation. This base medium is often supplemented with fetal bovine serum (FBS), supplying growth factors, and insulin for metabolic needs.
A stable environment is maintained for T47D cell culture. They thrive in incubators set at 37°C, mimicking the human body’s temperature. A controlled atmosphere containing 5% carbon dioxide (CO2) is also maintained, which helps regulate the pH of the culture medium, creating an optimal environment.
Under a microscope, T47D cells exhibit a distinct “epithelial-like” appearance, characteristic of cells forming linings and glandular tissues. They are “adherent” cells, meaning they attach and spread on culture surfaces. While primarily growing as a single layer (monolayer), they can also form small clumps or aggregates in dense cultures.
Applications in Breast Cancer Research
T47D cells serve as a model for studying hormone-responsive breast cancers, the most common type of breast cancer. Their positive status for estrogen and progesterone receptors makes them valuable for investigating how these hormones drive cancer growth. Researchers use these cells to evaluate the effectiveness of various endocrine therapies, such as tamoxifen (which blocks estrogen receptors) and aromatase inhibitors (which reduce estrogen production).
The cell line is also a common tool in the drug discovery process, for screening new anti-cancer compounds. Scientists can expose T47D cells to a wide range of potential drugs in high-throughput experiments. This allows identification of compounds that inhibit cell growth or induce cell death, providing initial insights into therapeutic candidates.
Beyond drug testing, T47D cells are used to unravel biological mechanisms of breast cancer. Researchers utilize them to investigate how cancer cells develop resistance to existing therapies, a challenge in treatment. They also help understand genetic pathways contributing to tumor growth and how cancer cells interact with their environment, including other cells and signaling molecules.
Use in Endocrine and Toxicology Studies
Beyond direct cancer treatment research, the hormone sensitivity of T47D cells makes them a tool in toxicology and endocrine studies. They are employed in screening for endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), substances that interfere with the body’s hormone system. These chemicals can mimic or block hormones, leading to adverse health effects.
Scientists use T47D cells to assess whether a chemical, such as bisphenol A (BPA) found in plastics or certain pesticides, can act like estrogen. Cells are exposed to the chemical. Researchers measure if the chemical binds to the estrogen receptor and triggers a cellular response, like increased cell proliferation. This indicates a chemical’s potential to disrupt hormonal balance, offering insights for public health and environmental safety.