BHK-21 refers to a cell line derived from the kidney cells of the baby hamster (Mesocricetus auratus). BHK-21 stands for Baby Hamster Kidney-21. It is commonly used in biological research, particularly in virology and vaccine production. They have similar value commercially to chicken embryo fibroblast cells.
These are the key features and characteristics of BHK-21 cells:-
Cell Line Origin
BHK-21 cells were originally derived from the kidney tissue of a baby hamster. They were established as a cell line and have been widely utilized in research and industrial applications.
Adherent Culture
BHK-21 cells are adherent cells, meaning they attach to the surface of a culture vessel and require a suitable substrate or matrix for growth.
Virus Susceptibility
BHK-21 cells are susceptible to a broad range of viruses, including those that infect humans, such as poliovirus, rabies (Fenje, 1960) foot-and-mouth disease virus, and Japanese encephalitis virus. These cells are often used as a host for virus propagation, isolation, and characterization.
Vaccine Production
BHK-21 cells have been employed in the production of viral vaccines. They serve as a substrate for viral replication and vaccine production in large-scale bioreactors. BHK-21-based vaccine production systems have been used for vaccines against diseases like rabies, polio, and Japanese encephalitis.
Cell Line Derivatives
Variants or subclones of the BHK-21 cell line have been developed to enhance specific features or address particular research requirements. For example, BHK-21-derived cell lines with specific genetic modifications or altered characteristics have been generated for improved virus production, recombinant protein expression, or specific research purposes.
As a Research Tool
BHK-21 cells are extensively used in virology research to study virus-host interactions, viral replication, and pathogenesis. They provide a valuable model system for understanding virus biology and developing antiviral therapies.
Cytogenetics
BHK-21 cells have been extensively characterized at the cytogenetic level, and their karyotype (chromosome arrangement) has been established. This information helps researchers maintain genetic stability and ensure consistency in experiments.
The BHK-21 cell line, with its permissiveness to a wide range of viruses and its ability to support virus replication and vaccine production, has been a valuable tool in virology research and vaccine development. Its use has contributed to advancements in understanding viral diseases and the production of effective vaccines against various pathogens.
References
Fenje, P. (1960). A rabies vaccine from hamster kidney tissue cultures: preparation and evaluation in animals. Canadian Journal of Microbiology, 6(6), pp. 605-609 (Article). .
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