I am working with Normal Human Epidermal Keratinocytes (NHEK) sourced from ATCC. I would like to know if any researchers here are also working with NHEK cells and can share insights, tips, or best practices.
NHEK cells from ATCC require optimized culture conditions to maintain viability and proper differentiation. Here are some key best practices:
Media & Supplements – Use keratinocyte growth medium (KGM) or KGM-2 with essential supplements (bovine pituitary extract, epidermal growth factor, insulin, hydrocortisone) to support proliferation. Avoid high calcium levels (>0.15 mM) unless differentiation is intended.
Coating & Subculture – Preferably use collagen-coated culture surfaces to enhance adhesion. Passage cells at ~70–80% confluence using trypsin/EDTA for minimal stress. Avoid over-digestion.
Seeding Density – Maintain an optimal density (~5 × 10⁴ cells/cm²) to prevent differentiation due to sparse seeding.
Low Passage Number – NHEK cells have limited proliferation capacity; use early-passage cells (