Cross-Species Comparison: SK vs. Other Neuroblastoma Cell Lines

Neuroblastoma cell lines are crucial tools in cancer research, offering valuable insights into tumor biology and potential therapeutic approaches. At Cytion, we maintain a comprehensive collection of neuroblastoma cell lines to support your research needs. In this article, we'll compare SK-derived neuroblastoma lines with other commonly used neuroblastoma models, highlighting their unique characteristics and research applications.

Understanding SK-N-SH: A Versatile Neuroblastoma Model

The SK-N-SH cell line represents one of the most extensively studied neuroblastoma models in cancer research. Established in 1970 from a bone marrow metastasis of a four-year-old female patient, this cell line exhibits remarkable heterogeneity that makes it valuable for diverse research applications. Unlike many aggressive neuroblastoma cell lines, SK-N-SH lacks MYCN amplification, making it an excellent model for studying non-MYCN-driven neuroblastoma pathology. The cell population contains both neuroblastic (N-type) and substrate-adherent (S-type) cells, which can be observed under standard culture conditions and contribute to its mixed morphology characteristics.

SK-N-MC: A Unique Neuroblastoma Line with Ewing Sarcoma Features

The SK-N-MC cell line presents a fascinating case in neuroblastoma research. Originally classified as a neuroblastoma cell line, SK-N-MC has been reclassified as an Ewing sarcoma model following the discovery of the characteristic EWSR1-FLI1 fusion gene. This genetic feature, absent in true neuroblastoma, demonstrates the importance of molecular characterization in cell line authentication. SK-N-MC displays a predominantly epithelial-like morphology and grows as adherent monolayers with moderate doubling times of approximately 30-36 hours. At Cytion, we maintain this line under carefully controlled conditions to preserve its unique characteristics. Researchers frequently utilize SK-N-MC for studying EWSR1-mediated oncogenesis, developing targeted therapies against Ewing sarcoma, and investigating the molecular mechanisms that differentiate Ewing sarcoma from neuroblastoma.

SK-N-BE(2): Modeling Aggressive, Treatment-Resistant Neuroblastoma

The SK-N-BE(2) cell line represents one of the most clinically relevant models for studying high-risk neuroblastoma. Established from a patient who had undergone extensive chemotherapy, this cell line harbors multiple genetic alterations associated with poor prognosis and treatment resistance. Most notably, SK-N-BE(2) carries MYCN amplification, a genetic hallmark found in approximately 25% of neuroblastoma cases and strongly correlated with aggressive disease progression. Additionally, it contains a p53 mutation (C135F), which contributes to its chemoresistant phenotype and makes it an invaluable model for studying drug resistance mechanisms. The cells exhibit neuroblastic morphology with small, densely packed cell bodies and minimal cytoplasm. When used in Cytion's research protocols, SK-N-BE(2) demonstrates remarkable stability in maintaining these aggressive characteristics across passages, providing consistent experimental results for researchers studying refractory neuroblastoma.

SH-SY5Y: From Neuroblastoma Research to Neurodegenerative Disease Models

The SH-SY5Y cell line has transcended its origins as a neuroblastoma model to become one of the most widely utilized cellular systems in neuroscience research. Derived as a thrice-cloned subline from the parental SK-N-SH, SH-SY5Y cells exhibit predominantly neuroblastic (N-type) morphology with neurite-like processes and express numerous neuronal markers including dopaminergic markers. A key genetic feature is its ALK F1174L mutation, which constitutively activates the ALK pathway and contributes to its tumorigenic potential. What makes SH-SY5Y particularly valuable is its remarkable capacity for neuronal differentiation when exposed to various agents such as retinoic acid, resulting in a more mature, post-mitotic neuronal phenotype. At Cytion, we provide extensively characterized SH-SY5Y cells that serve as excellent models for studying neuronal differentiation, neurotoxicity, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, bridging the gap between cancer research and neuroscience applications.