Teaching resources. Cell culture as a model system for teaching: using PC12 cells.

Abstract

This Teaching Resource provides an introduction to the use of cultured cells as an experimental approach in undergraduate laboratory research and the study of neuronal differentiation in PC12 cells. In addition, a thought experiment with answers is provided that can be used to assess student understanding of (i) the scientific method, (ii) signaling processes involved in cellular differentiation, and (iii) the use of pharmacological agents to manipulate a cell culture system.