SK-MES-1: Studying Smoking-Related Lung Cancer Models
At Cytion, we're committed to providing researchers with the most relevant cell line models for studying lung cancer pathology. The SK-MES-1 cell line represents one of our most valuable resources for investigating squamous cell carcinoma, a lung cancer subtype strongly associated with tobacco smoking.
Key Takeaways
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Origin | Human squamous cell carcinoma of the lung |
| Applications | Smoking-related lung cancer research, drug discovery, cancer biology |
| Growth Characteristics | Adherent monolayer with epithelial morphology |
| Key Mutations | p53, KRAS, EGFR pathway alterations |
| Culture Conditions | EMEM with 10% FBS, 37°C, 5% CO₂ |
SK-MES-1: Studying Smoking-Related Lung Cancer Models
At Cytion, we're committed to providing researchers with the most relevant cell line models for studying lung cancer pathology. The SK-MES-1 Cells represent one of our most valuable resources for investigating squamous cell carcinoma, a lung cancer subtype strongly associated with tobacco smoking. Originally derived from a 65-year-old male with a history of heavy smoking, this cell line serves as an ideal model for exploring the molecular mechanisms underlying smoking-induced lung malignancies.
Research Applications and Significance
SK-MES-1 cells have become instrumental in advancing our understanding of smoking-related lung cancer biology. Researchers utilize this cell line in conjunction with other models such as A549 Cells and NCI-H460 Cells to study comparative oncogenic mechanisms. The significance of SK-MES-1 extends beyond basic research into drug discovery pipelines, where it serves as a critical platform for evaluating novel therapeutic compounds targeting squamous cell lung carcinomas. At Cytion, we've optimized cultivation protocols to ensure consistent experimental outcomes when working with this valuable lung cancer cell line.
Growth Characteristics and Morphology
When cultivated in our laboratories, SK-MES-1 displays distinctive growth patterns that researchers should consider for experimental design. These cells form an adherent monolayer with typical epithelial morphology, characterized by polygonal shapes and tight intercellular junctions. Unlike some other lung cancer cell lines such as NCI-H1299 Cells, SK-MES-1 exhibits moderate doubling times of approximately 48 hours. The cells maintain stable morphology through multiple passages when properly maintained, showing minimal phenotypic drift compared to other squamous models. For optimal visualization of cellular structures, we recommend phase-contrast microscopy at 20x magnification, which clearly reveals the characteristic epithelial sheet formation with distinct cellular boundaries.
Genetic Profile and Key Mutations
The molecular signature of SK-MES-1 provides valuable insights into smoking-related carcinogenesis. These cells harbor characteristic mutations in the p53 tumor suppressor gene, reflecting the genomic damage commonly observed in tobacco-associated malignancies. Unlike adenocarcinoma models such as A549 Cells, SK-MES-1 displays a distinct pattern of KRAS alterations and EGFR pathway modifications that more accurately represent squamous pathology. This genetic profile makes the cell line particularly relevant for researchers investigating targeted therapies against these pathways. Our rigorous cell line authentication processes ensure that researchers receive genetically verified cultures with consistent mutational backgrounds, enabling reproducible experimental results across different research settings.
Optimal Culture Conditions and Handling
To maintain SK-MES-1 cells at peak viability and phenotypic stability, we recommend specific culture conditions. Optimal growth is achieved using EMEM (MEM Eagle), w: 2 mM L-Glutamine, w: 1.5 g/L NaHCO3, w: EBSS, w: 1 mM Sodium pyruvate, w: NEAA supplemented with 10% FBS in a humidified incubator at 37°C with 5% CO₂. Unlike some more demanding lung cancer models, SK-MES-1 exhibits relatively straightforward maintenance requirements with subculturing recommended at 70-80% confluence using standard trypsinization protocols. For cryopreservation, we suggest using our Freeze Medium CM-1 - 100 ml to ensure maximum post-thaw recovery rates. Regular Mycoplasma testing is essential as these cells can be susceptible to contamination, which may alter experimental outcomes.