What Are ID8 Cells and Why Are They Important in Research?

ID8 cells are a recognized and utilized cell line in scientific research, particularly in the study of certain diseases. These cells provide a consistent system for scientists to investigate complex biological processes and test potential new therapies. Their importance stems from their ability to mimic aspects of human disease, making them a valuable tool for preclinical studies. Researchers worldwide rely on ID8 cells to understand disease mechanisms and accelerate treatment development.

Origin and Characteristics of ID8 Cells

ID8 cells originated from spontaneously transformed mouse ovarian surface epithelial cells (MOSEC) from a C57BL/6 mouse. They were established as one of ten clonal lines after prolonged in vitro passages, losing their normal “cobblestone” appearance and growing in multi-layered clusters, indicating their transformed nature. Among the ten lines, ID8 demonstrated the highest tumor load when injected into mice.

They are epithelial and possess distinct tumorigenic properties. When introduced into mice, they form peritoneal tumors and produce ascites (fluid accumulation in the abdomen). This characteristic closely mirrors the progression of advanced human ovarian cancer, including peritoneal dissemination. ID8 cells are a well-characterized cell line, frequently used as a syngeneic mouse model for human ovarian cancer research.

Understanding ID8 Cells as a Research Model

ID8 cells serve as a valuable research model due to several advantages. A significant benefit is their syngeneic nature, allowing them to be grown in immunocompetent C57BL/6 mice without immune system rejection. This is particularly useful for studies examining the complex interplay between tumor cells and the immune system, a dynamic often absent in immunodeficient mouse models.

Another substantial advantage is the ability of ID8 cells to closely mimic advanced human ovarian cancer progression. When implanted in vivo, they develop peritoneal metastases and ascites, common features of late-stage human ovarian cancer. This realistic representation allows researchers to investigate disease mechanisms, such as tumor growth and spread within the abdominal cavity, in a setting resembling the human condition. These properties establish ID8 cells as an effective platform for understanding disease pathology and evaluating new therapeutic strategies.

Major Research Applications of ID8 Cells

ID8 cells are used across various research areas. A significant application is in drug discovery and preclinical testing for ovarian cancer therapies. Researchers use ID8 cells to evaluate new compounds and treatment regimens before human clinical trials. This includes assessing their ability to inhibit tumor cell proliferation, induce apoptosis, or reduce tumor size and spread in mouse models.

ID8 cells also support the development and evaluation of novel immunotherapies. Because they can be studied in immunocompetent mice, these cells allow scientists to investigate how the immune system interacts with tumor cells and how immunotherapeutic agents enhance anti-tumor responses. Studies using ID8 cells have explored various immunotherapeutic approaches, including cytokines or checkpoint inhibitors, observing their impact on tumor growth and immune cell infiltration within the tumor microenvironment.

ID8 cells also contribute to understanding the tumor microenvironment, which encompasses a tumor’s cellular and molecular surroundings. Scientists use this model to analyze the composition of immune cells, stromal cells, and signaling molecules within the tumor, providing insights into how these components influence cancer progression and response to therapy. Research into cancer metastasis mechanisms, particularly peritoneal dissemination, is also facilitated by ID8 cells. Their ability to form widespread abdominal tumors allows for detailed study of metastatic pathways and potential interventions.

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