Hep2 Cells and Their Role in Laryngeal Cancer Research
Hep 2 cells are a pivotal in vitro model used extensively across biomedical research domains, such as rheumatology, cancer research, and immunology. Originating from laryngeal carcinoma, these human cells have been integral to elucidating the tissue of origin and the specific traits of laryngeal neoplasms. Their significance is well recognized in translational cancer research, where they've greatly contributed to our understanding of the laryngeal nature and origin of cancers, marking a substantial presence in laryngeal cancer research publications [1].
Origin and general characteristics of the Hep 2 cells
A cell line's origin and general characteristics define its applicability in research. This section will help you know about the origin and some salient features of Hep 2 cells. For instance, you will find out: What is the HEp-2 cell line? What is the source of Hep 2 cells? And what is the morphology of Hep 2?
- Hep 2, an immortal human epithelial cell line was first described by H.W. Toolan as laryngeal carcinoma cells in 1954. However, lately, it has been reported that the Hep 2 cell line is composed of cervical adenocarcinoma cells and originated from contamination of the Hela cell line [2].
- Hep 2 cells contain Hela marker chromosomes and are found positive for Keratin and human papillomavirus DNA sequences as confirmed via immunoperoxidase staining and PCR, respectively.
- The Hela cell line derivative Hep 2 possesses an epithelial-like morphology.
- The Hep 2 cell line exhibits both structural and numerical chromosomal abrasions with a near-triploid karyotype [3].
Hep 2 cell line: Culturing information
Before working with a cell line, we must know the following key points for its culturing. This information can be useful for effectively culturing and maintaining the cell line. You should know: What is the doubling time of HEp-2 cells? Are Hep 2 cells adherent? What is the seeding density of Hep2 cells?
Population Doubling Time: |
The doubling time reported for Hep 2 cells is approximately 40 hours. |
Adherent or in Suspension: |
Hep 2 cells are adherent and grow into monolayers. |
Seeding Density: |
A seeding density of 1 x 104 cells/cm2 is ideal for Hep 2 cell culture. For seeding, adherent Hep 2 cells are rinsed with 1 x PBS solution, followed by incubation with Accutase dissociation solution. After 8–10-minute incubation at ambient temperature, cells are resuspended in media and centrifuged. The collected cells are then dispensed in fresh medium and poured into new flasks for culturing. |
Growth Medium: |
EMEM or Eagle's minimal essential medium is used to culture Hep 2 cells. This media is supplemented with 10% FBS, 1.0 g/L glucose, 2.2 g/L NaHCO3, 2.0 mM L-glutamine, 1% NEAA, and 1 mM sodium pyruvate for ideal cell growth. Media should be renewed 2 to 3 times a week. |
Growth Conditions: |
Like other mammalian cell lines, Hep 2 is also cultured in a humidified incubator set at 37°C temperature and with a continuous supply of 5% CO2. |
Storage: |
Hep 2 cells can be stored in ultra-low temperature electric freezers (below -150 °C) or in liquid nitrogen vapor phase for long term storage. |
Freezing Process and Medium: |
The freezing media recommended for Hep 2 cells are CM-1 or CM-ACF. Cells should be frozen using a slow freezing process that allows a gradual 1 °C drop in temperature and protects cell viability. |
Thawing Process: |
The frozen cells vial is quickly thawed by agitation in water bath at 37°C until a small ice clump is left. Cells are then added to fresh media and centrifuged to remove freezing media components. Later, the cell pellet is resuspended in media, and cells are dispensed into culture flasks. Cells need to rest for almost 24 hours to adhere. |
Biosafety Level |
Biosafety level 1 laboratory is recommended for handling and maintenance of Hep 2 cell cultures. |
Advantages & Limitations of Hep 2 cells
Almost all cell lines exhibit a unique combination of advantages and limitations that contribute to their use in the research field. This section will describe a few main pros and cons associated with the Hep 2 cell line.
Advantages
The principal advantages of the Hep 2 cell line are:
- Human Origin: Hep 2 is derived from human epithelial cells, making it a valuable in vitro model for studying human diseases and viral infections.
- ANA Detection: The Hep 2 cell line possesses a native protein array that presents numerous antigens, making it an excellent substrate for detecting antinuclear antibodies (ANA). This feature enables specific and highly sensitive screening of ANA in serum, making it a crucial diagnostic tool for identifying connective tissue diseases.
Limitations
- Chromosomal Abnormalities: Hep 2 cells exhibit multiple numerical and structural chromosomal abnormalities. These abnormalities can impact cell behavior and may restrict their applicability in certain laboratory experiments.
- Tumorigenicity: Hep 2, a tumour-derived human epithelial cell line, may possess genetic abnormalities typically absent in epithelial cells. Consequently, the use of Hep 2 cells might be constrained in specific studies focusing on normal cellular physiology.
Expanding Applications of Hep 2 Cell Line in Biomedical Research
The Hep 2 cell line stands out as an exemplary model for a multitude of applications within biomedical research. Renowned for their versatility, these cells serve critical roles in in vitro experiments, ranging from receptor analysis to the study of complex diseases.
Exploring Tumorigenic Mechanisms and Therapeutic Targets with Hep 2 Cells
Hep 2 cells, being tumorigenic, are pivotal for delving into the intricacies of cancer biology. They provide insights into cancer signaling pathways, mechanistic studies, and are a mainstay in the screening and evaluation of anticancer drugs. For example, an insightful study utilized Hep 2 to delineate the influence of miRNA-33a on cancer cell proliferation. The findings illuminated the antiproliferative effects of miRNA-33a through its interaction with PIM1, a known oncogene, suggesting a novel therapeutic target [4]. In another instance, Hep 2 was employed in assessing the therapeutic potential of Marsdenia tenacissima zinc oxide nanoparticles, highlighting their antiproliferative and apoptotic efficacy [5].
Advancing Virology Research with Hep 2 Cell Insights
The susceptibility of Hep 2 cells to various human viruses makes them an invaluable resource in virological research. They have been effectively used in the expression of SARS-CoV-2 viral genes to unravel the complex interplay between the virus and host cellular mechanisms [6]. This application is particularly crucial in the current era, where understanding and combating viral infections like COVID-19 is a global priority.
Deciphering Cellular Functions: Gene Manipulation in Hep 2 Cells
The Hep 2 cell line's adaptability to genetic manipulation underscores its utility in mechanistic studies. Researchers capitalize on this feature to modulate gene expression and elucidate the roles of specific genes in cellular functions. A notable study involved the overexpression of the RNA-binding protein RBM6 in Hep 2 cells, which facilitated the investigation of its tumor suppressor potential, providing valuable insights into the molecular underpinnings of cancer [7].
Enhancing Disease Diagnosis through Hep 2 Cell Line Applications
Beyond these research domains, Hep 2 cells are acclaimed for their diagnostic capabilities, especially in the detection of ANAs, which are critical in the diagnosis of autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus. The precision with which Hep 2 cells can present ANAs supports the diagnosis and development of targeted treatments, enhancing our understanding of autoimmune pathologies and improving patient care.
Through these diverse applications, Hep 2 cells have significantly contributed to advancements in translational cancer research, the study of viral infections, and the exploration of cellular mechanisms. Their contribution to the generation of clinically relevant data is invaluable, confirming their indispensable role in both the laboratory and the clinic. As research continues to evolve, the Hep 2 cell line is sure to remain at the forefront, aiding in the discovery of new treatments and expanding our knowledge of human health and disease.
Secure Your HEp-2 Cell Line Today
Hep 2 cells: Research Publications
The following are some interesting and most cited research publications on Hep 2 cells.
- Synthesis of Zinc oxide nanoparticles from Marsdenia tenacissima inhibits the cell proliferation and induces apoptosis in laryngeal cancer cells (Hep-2)
This article published in the Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology (2019) explored the anti-cancer potential of biosynthesized Marsdenia tenacissima zinc oxide nanoparticles in the Hep 2 cell line. - Bioformulated hesperidin-loaded PLGA nanoparticles counteract the mitochondrial-mediated intrinsic apoptotic pathway in cancer cells
This paper was published in the Journal of Inorganic and Organometallic Polymers and Materials in 2021. This study examined the anti-cancer properties of bio-formulated hesperidin-loaded Poly (lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) nanoparticles in Hep 2 cells. - Antiviral activity of ethanol extract of Lophatherum gracile against respiratory syncytial virus infection
This publication in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2019 used Hep 2 cells to study respiratory syncytial virus infection and screen antiviral drugs against it. The study reported the promising antiviral potential of ethanol extract of a medicinal plant i.e., Lophatherum gracile against respiratory syncytial virus infection. - Evaluation of aqueous-extracts from four aromatic plants for their activity against Candida albicans adhesion to human HEp-2 epithelial cells
This research is published in the Gene Reports (2020). This study explored the inhibitory potential of aqueous extracts of four aromatic plants against the adhesion of Candida albicans to human Hep 2 epithelial cells. - Wnt1‐inducible signaling protein 1 regulates laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma glycolysis and chemoresistance via the YAP1/TEAD1/GLUT1 pathway
This study was published in the Journal of Cellular Physiology in 2019. The study reports that Wnt1‐inducible signalling protein 1 (WISP1) interacts with YAP1/TEAD1/GLUT1 pathway and regulates glucose metabolism and chemoresistance in the Hep 2 cell line.
Resources for Hep2 Cell Line: Protocols, Videos, and More
Hep 2 is a well-known cell line. There are several available resources featuring the Hep 2 cell line.
- Subculturing Hep2 cell line: This video is a step-by-step guide to subculturing Hep 2 cells.
- Hep 2 cells ANA screening: This video explains anti-nuclear antibodies (ANA) screening using the Hep 2 cell line.
- Hep 2 culturing: This link contains basic cell culture information about Hep 2 cells. It includes cell splitting, cell freezing, and thawing.
Frequently Asked Questions about HEp-2 Cells in Biomedical Research
References
- Fusi, M. and S. Dotti, Adaptation of the HEp-2 cell line to totally animal-free culture systems and real-time analysis of cell growth. Biotechniques, 2021. 70(6): p. 319-326.
- Gorphe, P., A comprehensive review of Hep-2 cell line in translational research for laryngeal cancer. Am J Cancer Res, 2019. 9(4): p. 644-649.
- Wang, M., et al., Cancer-associated fibroblasts in a human HEp-2 established laryngeal xenografted tumor are not derived from cancer cells through epithelial-mesenchymal transition, phenotypically activated but karyotypically normal. PLoS One, 2015. 10(2): p. e0117405.
- Karatas, O.F., Antiproliferative potential of miR-33a in laryngeal cancer Hep-2 cells via targeting PIM1. Head Neck, 2018. 40(11): p. 2455-2461.
- Wang, Y., et al., Synthesis of Zinc oxide nanoparticles from Marsdenia tenacissima inhibits the cell proliferation and induces apoptosis in laryngeal cancer cells (Hep-2). Journal of Photochemistry and Photobiology B: Biology, 2019. 201: p. 111624.
- Zhang, J., et al., A systemic and molecular study of subcellular localization of SARS-CoV-2 proteins. Signal Transduct Target Ther, 2020. 5(1): p. 269.
- Wang, Q., et al., RNA-binding protein RBM6 as a tumor suppressor gene represses the growth and progression in laryngocarcinoma. Gene, 2019. 697: p. 26-34.