Sampcells

Sampcells are a type of biological research tool derived from cells that have been genetically modified to express specific reporter genes. These reporter genes are often fluorescent proteins, such as Green Fluorescent Protein (GFP) or Red Fluorescent Protein (RFP), which emit light when excited by a specific wavelength of light. The expression of these reporter genes is typically controlled by a promoter that is activated under specific cellular conditions or in response to particular stimuli.

The primary utility of sampcells lies in their ability to visualize and quantify cellular processes in real-time. For example, a sampcell line engineered with a reporter gene under the control of a promoter that responds to oxidative stress can be used to monitor the onset and progression of oxidative damage in living cells. Researchers can then observe the intensity and distribution of the fluorescent signal to assess the degree of stress and identify potential protective or damaging agents.

Sampcells are invaluable in various research areas, including drug discovery, toxicology, and basic cell biology. They allow for high-throughput screening of compounds for their effects on cellular pathways, the identification of cellular mechanisms underlying disease, and the study of gene regulation. The ease of detection and quantification offered by fluorescent reporters makes sampcells a powerful and versatile tool for gaining insights into complex cellular dynamics.