Differences Between MDA Subtypes

MDA cell lines represent some of the most widely used models in breast cancer research. Each subtype offers unique characteristics that make them valuable for specific research applications. Here at Cytion, we provide several well-characterized MDA variants, including MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-435S, MDA-MB-436, and MDA-MB-468 cells.

MDA-MB-231: The Gold Standard for Triple-Negative Breast Cancer Research

The MDA-MB-231 cell line stands as one of the most extensively studied models in triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC) research. Characterized by its lack of estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR), and HER2 expression, this cell line accurately represents the aggressive nature of TNBC. Its highly invasive properties and robust metastatic potential make it invaluable for studying cancer progression mechanisms. Researchers particularly value MDA-MB-231 cells for their consistent performance in drug resistance studies, where they've helped identify novel therapeutic targets for treating chemoresistant breast cancers. When used alongside other breast cancer models like MCF-7 cells, they provide crucial insights into the molecular mechanisms distinguishing aggressive from less invasive breast cancers.

MDA-MB-435S: Understanding Its Unique Research Value

The MDA-MB-435S cell line presents a fascinating case study in cancer research. Originally classified as a breast cancer cell line, subsequent genetic analysis revealed melanoma-like characteristics, sparking significant scientific debate. This unique profile, rather than diminishing its value, has made it an exceptional model for studying cancer cell plasticity and phenotype switching. The cell line exhibits remarkable stability in culture and demonstrates consistent metastatic behavior, particularly to the lung and brain. These properties make it especially valuable for investigating metastatic processes and cancer cell adaptation. When used in conjunction with melanoma models like A375 cells, MDA-MB-435S provides crucial insights into the mechanisms of cancer progression and metastatic behavior.

MDA-MB-436: Key Model for BRCA1-Mutated Breast Cancer Research

The MDA-MB-436 cell line represents a crucial model for studying BRCA1-mutated triple-negative breast cancer. Derived from the pleural effusion of a 43-year-old breast cancer patient, these cells harbor a mutation in the BRCA1 gene, making them invaluable for research into DNA repair mechanisms. Their deficiency in homologous recombination repair pathways has made them particularly useful in PARP inhibitor studies, a targeted therapy approach that exploits synthetic lethality in BRCA-mutated cancers. When compared with BRCA-proficient cell lines like MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-436 cells provide essential insights into DNA damage response pathways and help researchers develop more effective therapeutic strategies for hereditary breast cancers.

MDA-MB-468: Advanced Model for EGFR-Targeted Therapy Research

The MDA-MB-468 cell line stands out in breast cancer research due to its significant EGFR (Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor) amplification. Established from the pleural effusion of a metastatic breast adenocarcinoma patient, these cells express EGFR levels approximately 100-fold higher than normal breast epithelial cells. This characteristic makes them an exceptional model for studying EGFR-targeted therapies and signal transduction pathways. Unlike other triple-negative cell lines such as MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-468 cells show particular sensitivity to EGFR inhibitors, making them invaluable for developing and testing targeted therapeutic approaches. Their unique profile has contributed significantly to our understanding of receptor tyrosine kinase signaling in cancer progression and therapeutic resistance.

These cells are particularly useful when studying the PI3K/AKT pathway, as they carry a PTEN deletion, leading to constitutively active AKT signaling. When used in combination with other breast cancer models like MCF-7 cells, they provide comprehensive insights into the diverse molecular mechanisms driving different breast cancer subtypes.

Comparative Analysis of MDA Breast Cancer Cell Lines

Note: All cell lines are available from Cytion with comprehensive quality control documentation and support for optimal culture conditions.