Establishment and characterization of a new human testicular seminoma cell line, JKT-1

Abstract

Background: A new human testicular cancer cell line (JKT-1) was established, successfully transplanted into nude mice, and has been maintained for over 2 years. We examined the biological characteristics of JKT-1 cells. Methods: The original material for JKT-1 was derived from a primary lesion of a left testicular seminoma (pure, typical-type) from a 40-year-old male. The tumor tissue was minced and cultured according to the explant culture method. The cells grew as a monolayer with a doubling time of 28.5 hours. Results: JKT-1 produced neither alpha-fetoprotein or β-human chorionic gonadotropin, but showed strong immunoreactivities for vimentin and placental alkaline phosphatase. A chromosomal analysis revealed a modal number of 66 with loss of the Y chromosome. Morphologically, JKT-1 cells have a pleomorphic polygonal shape, an increase in the nuclear/cytoplasm ratio, acid poor development of organelle and desmosome-like cell-cell junctions. JKT-1 cells were subcutaneously transplanted into the backs of 6-week-old nude mice, and grew classical seminomatous tissue. Conclusion: This report profiled a seminoma cell line established for both in vitro and in vivo experimental systems. Future studies are planned to investigate germ cells using this seminoma line.