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What are STC cells?

Published in Cell Biology 2 mins read

STC cells, specifically STC-1 cells, are an intestinal neuroendocrine cell line derived from a mouse model.

Understanding STC-1 Cells

Here's a breakdown of what makes STC-1 cells unique:

  • Origin: STC-1 cells were isolated in 1990 from the intestine of a 10-to-13-week-old mouse that had developed a carcinoma.
  • Model: The cell line originates from the intestinal tumors of double transgenic mice. This means the mice had been genetically modified to develop these specific tumors.
  • Classification: STC-1 cells are classified as neuroendocrine cells. Neuroendocrine cells release hormones and other signaling molecules, making them vital for various bodily functions, especially in the digestive system.
  • Research Significance: Due to their unique properties, STC-1 cells have become an important in vitro research model for studies related to intestinal neuroendocrine physiology and pathology.

Key Characteristics of STC-1 Cells

Characteristic Description
Type Intestinal neuroendocrine cell line
Source Intestine of double transgenic mice
Purpose In vitro model for researching intestinal neuroendocrine function and related diseases.
Notable Features Exhibit properties of neuroendocrine cells, including hormone production.

Why are STC-1 Cells Important for Research?

  • Studying Intestinal Processes: Researchers use STC-1 cells to study how the intestine works, including hormone secretion, cell signaling, and disease mechanisms.
  • Disease Modeling: The tumor origin of STC-1 cells makes them useful for investigating intestinal cancers and other related pathologies.
  • In Vitro Advantages: Using a cell line like STC-1 allows for controlled experiments in a lab setting, avoiding the complexities and ethical concerns associated with animal models.

In summary, STC cells, specifically the STC-1 cell line, are valuable tools for scientists studying the complex interactions within the intestinal neuroendocrine system.

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