Model Trisomic Cell Lines
Stable cell line models for trisomy 21, 18 and 13, generated by microcell-mediated chromosome transfer
Background
Extra chromosome copies markedly alter the physiology of eukaryotic cells, but the underlying reasons are not well understood. In humans trisomy either results in developmental defects or miscarriage. Trisomy 21, the so-called Down’s Syndrome, is the most abundant form which occurs in 1 out of 750 live births. Standard means to diagnose Down’s syndrome are blood-based screenings, ultrasound and finally invasive prenatal diagnostic methods such as amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling.
Technology Overview
Scientists from the Max Planck Institute of Biochemistry engineered stable cell line models for trisomy 21, 18 and 13, the most abundant types of trisomies observed in viable human embryos. The cell lines were generated by microcell-mediated chromosome transfer using the human colon carcinoma cell line HCT116 as recipient. The genomic background of the respective cell lines is fully confirmed by chromosome painting () as well as by digital PCR and next generation sequencing.
Benefits
The offered technology will provide the licensee with cellular model systems for the most relevant forms of human trisomy together with an isogenic reference cell line (wild type HCT116). The genomic DNA derived therefrom are exquisitely suited to be used as molecular reference standard in research applications or with clinical diagnostic tests.
Opportunity
Model trisomic cell lines are available through a non-exclusive license agreement with Max- Planck-Innovation, the tech-transfer agency of Max Planck Society.