HCEC are difficult to expand ex vivo. A few research groups have succeeded in immortalizing HCEC, but is there a commercial source?
Hi Thais, thanks for a speedy response and the link to the brochure that is helpful. However, the corneal cells described on P21-22 of the catalogue are epithelial cells, while I am looking for corneal endothelium cells, which are more difficult to grow. Any further thoughts? Muito obrigado, Thierry
Hi Thierry, why don't you try ATCC or ECACC..one of the two should provide HCEC cells.
Hi Elena, thanks for your comment. I did check both sources and could not find the HCEnC line (they have epithelial cells but not endothelial origin). Best, Thierry
Thanks Thais! I think only very recently some research groups have succeeded establishing HCEnC so I am afraid it may not be that easy to get them from traditional sources. These cells are a bit tricky. Best, Thierry
The question was asked long ago but I'll still add the information as it may help others who are interested in this field. The corneal endothelial cell line (B4G12) is commercially available from DSMZ: http://www.dsmz.de/catalogues/details/culture/ACC-647.html
However, it is important to note that the immortalized corneal endothelial cells are only good as a model cell type to understand different functions of corneal endothelial cells. These cells can not be used as a cell therapy or for tissue engineering approach for actual corneal patients. The "unlimited" proliferation could potentially cover the trabecular meshwork of the eye. We have worked with both cell types and we think that the primary cells separated from donor corneas cold be the best cell source for cornea therapy.
Dear Rizman,
Thank you for answering my question. The information you provide is useful. Kind regards, Thierry
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