Cell line origin check: which established cell line is derived from a mouse embryo (embryo fibroblasts used widely in research)?
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A3T3
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BBHK
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CHeLa
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DBTK
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EVero
Answer
Correct Answer: 3T3
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Authenticating cell lines and recalling their origins is essential for interpreting experimental results. The NIH 3T3 line is a classic mouse embryo fibroblast line used in transformation assays, growth studies, and transfection optimization.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- 3T3: mouse embryo fibroblasts.
- BHK: baby hamster kidney (hamster origin).
- HeLa: human cervical carcinoma (human origin).
- BTK: not a standard established line acronym in this context; commonly refers to a kinase, not a cell line.
- Vero: African green monkey kidney.
Concept / Approach:Match each widely known line to its species. Only NIH 3T3 comes from mouse embryo fibroblasts among the options, making it the correct choice for this origin-focused question.
Step-by-Step Solution:
List species for each cell line.Identify the mouse embryo derivative.Select 3T3.Verification / Alternative check:Standard cell repositories (for example, ATCC) document the origins: NIH 3T3 (Mus musculus), BHK (Mesocricetus auratus), HeLa (Homo sapiens), Vero (Chlorocebus sabaeus).
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- B/C/E: Hamster, human, and monkey lines respectively; not mouse embryo fibroblasts.
- D: BTK is not a conventional cell line designation here.
Common Pitfalls:Confusing 3T3 with 3T3-L1 (a subline used for adipogenesis studies) but both are mouse-derived.
Final Answer:3T3