MCF10A

MCF10A is a commonly used human mammary epithelial cell line. It is derived from a benign tumor of the breast of a woman with normal tissue. These cells are often utilized in research settings to study normal mammary gland development, cell signaling pathways, and the early stages of breast cancer development. MCF10A cells are non-tumorigenic and exhibit characteristics of normal epithelial cells, including the ability to form acinar structures in three-dimensional culture. This three-dimensional culture system is a valuable model for investigating processes like polarity, lumen formation, and the effects of various genetic or chemical perturbations on mammary epithelial organization. The cell line has specific growth requirements, typically cultured in a medium supplemented with growth factors such as epidermal growth factor (EGF), hydrocortisone, cholera toxin, and insulin. Its well-characterized nature and responsiveness to stimuli make it a standard model for studying the transition from normal to hyperplastic and potentially cancerous states of breast tissue. Researchers often employ MCF10A cells to assess the impact of oncogenes, tumor suppressors, and other molecular agents on cell proliferation, survival, and differentiation.