1. Stable cell line generation

Stable cell lines that harbour genetic modifications to express specific proteins or biomolecules of interest or that are resistant to certain compounds are frequently generated. For stable cell line generation a sequential series of events (cycles) takes place until a uniform population of cells with the required phenotype/genotype is obtained.

2. HUVEC isolation

Human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVEC) are isolated from the vein of healthy umbilical cords using an established protocol (link). The cells are put on tissue culture plates and allowed to reached 80-100% confluency before passaging and used for subsequent experiments. Confirmation of the purity of the culture is achieved by staining for the protein Von Willebrand Factor (VWF), which is the main cargo of the rod-shaped Weibel-Palade bodie, secretory organelles unique to endothelial cells.

3. Cryopreservation

Cryopreservation enables the long-term storage of cell cultures and is invaluable when working with primary cells or unique cell lines. Cryopreservation decreases risks of contamination, cross-contamination with other cell lines and genetic drift due to genomic instability. Cella are stored at liquid nitrogen storage vessels and BRI personnel ensures liquid nitrogen delivery in a timely fashion. Each laboratory is assigned a dedicated space and keeps an inventory system.