insektscellen

Insektscellen, or insect cells, are cellular systems derived from insects that are widely used in biotechnology and research. These cells are employed primarily for recombinant protein expression, virus production, and vaccine development due to their ability to perform post-translational modifications similar to those in higher eukaryotic cells.

One of the most common insect cell lines is the Spodoptera frugiperda cell line, known as Sf9 and Sf21, which are derived from the fall armyworm. Another widely utilized line is the Trichoplusia ni cell line, known as Tn5. These cells are typically maintained in culture media at 27°C and are cultivated either in suspension or adherent forms.

Insect cells are often used in conjunction with the Baculovirus Expression Vector System (BEVS), a powerful method for producing large quantities of recombinant proteins. In this system, a recombinant baculovirus infects the insect cells, prompting them to produce the protein of interest. This method is favored for its high yield, safety (as baculoviruses do not infect humans), and ability to produce complex, properly folded proteins with post-translational modifications.

Insect cell systems are also instrumental in vaccine development, including the production of virus-like particles (VLPs) and live attenuated vaccines. Their capacity to produce high-quality proteins, combined with scalability and safety, makes them an essential tool in modern biotechnology.

Overall, insect cells are a versatile and valuable platform for various applications in research, pharmaceuticals, and vaccine production, offering a balance between efficiency and biological relevance.