Sarcoma Cells
Sarcomas are a diverse and heterogeneous group of mesenchymal malignancies, encompassing over 100 histological subtypes. Our Sarcoma Cells portfolio provides a comprehensive collection of well-characterized human sarcoma cell lines, enabling researchers to investigate the distinct biology, therapeutic vulnerabilities, and clinical progression of osteosarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma, chondrosarcoma, and other soft tissue sarcomas.
This curated selection includes models with varied genetic backgrounds, treatment histories, and metastatic potential—from classic lines like the rhabdomyosarcoma model RH-30 to specialized, therapy-resistant models such as the chondrosarcoma line H-EMC-SS. These tools support critical research in drug discovery, resistance mechanisms, and the tumor microenvironment.
Histologically Diverse Clinically Relevant Therapy-Resistant Models Authenticated
Key Features & Expertise
Our sarcoma cell lines are characterized to address the unique challenges of sarcoma research
Broad Histological & Genetic Coverage
- Represents major sarcoma subtypes: bone (osteosarcoma), soft tissue (rhabdomyosarcoma, Ewing sarcoma), and others
- Includes models with key driver alterations (TP53, RB1, KMT2C, fusion genes like EWSR1-FLI1)
- Features both primary tumor-derived and metastatic or xenograft-derived models (e.g., RH-18)
Models for Therapy Resistance & Progression
- Includes chemotherapy-resistant models (e.g., CAL-72 from a resistant osteosarcoma)
- Characterized for response to standard agents (doxorubicin, ifosfamide, cisplatin) and targeted therapies
- Suitable for studying metastasis, invasion, and in vivo xenograft establishment
Rigorously Authenticated & Documented
- STR-profiled to confirm unique identity and origin, critical for rare sarcoma models
- Routinely screened and certified mycoplasma-free
- Supplied with detailed patient/tumor metadata (age, site, treatment history) and culture protocols
FAQ
What are the main differences between osteosarcoma, rhabdomyosarcoma, and Ewing sarcoma cell lines?
They represent distinct sarcoma subtypes. Osteosarcoma lines (e.g., CAL-72, Saos-LM2) are bone-forming tumors, often with complex karyotypes and TP53 mutations. Rhabdomyosarcoma lines (e.g., RH-30, RH-41) are skeletal muscle precursors, with alveolar subtypes having PAX3/7-FOXO1 fusions. Ewing sarcoma lines (e.g., TC-71, A673) are small round blue cell tumors defined by EWSR1-ETS fusions (e.g., EWSR1-FLI1). Choosing the right model depends on the specific sarcoma subtype and molecular driver you wish to study.
Do you have chemotherapy-resistant sarcoma models?
Yes. Our collection includes models established from patients after chemotherapy failure, such as the osteosarcoma line CAL-72, which was derived from a chemotherapy-resistant tumor. These models are valuable for studying mechanisms of drug resistance and screening for novel agents that can overcome it.
Which models are suitable for studying metastasis or in vivo xenografts?
Several lines are well-established for metastasis research. Saos-LM2 is a highly metastatic osteosarcoma subline. The RH series (e.g., RH-30, RH-41) are derived from metastatic sites. Furthermore, lines like RH-18 were established from xenografts, indicating their robust in vivo engraftment potential, making them excellent candidates for animal studies.
What information is provided for the NCCIT and other pluripotent cell-derived models?
For models like NCCIT (a pluripotent embryonal carcinoma line), we provide characterization data including pluripotency marker expression (e.g., OCT4, NANOG), differentiation potential, and genetic background. Such lines are useful for studying germ cell tumors or as models of undifferentiated, aggressive cancer biology.
How are these sarcoma cell lines authenticated, given their diversity?
All cell lines, regardless of subtype, undergo STR (Short Tandem Repeat) profiling to confirm their unique genetic fingerprint and rule out cross-contamination—a critical step for research reproducibility. They are also certified free of mycoplasma and other common contaminants.
What is the typical growth medium for these sarcoma cell lines?
Growth requirements vary. Most osteosarcoma and Ewing sarcoma lines (e.g., U2OS, TC-71) grow well in DMEM or RPMI-1640 with 10% FBS. Rhabdomyosarcoma lines (e.g., RD, RH-30) also typically use DMEM. However, some specialized or patient-derived lines may have specific requirements. Detailed, cell line-specific protocols are provided with each shipment.
Can I obtain paired primary/metastatic or sensitive/resistant cell lines?
We offer some models that are conceptually paired, such as chemotherapy-resistant derivatives or lines from primary versus metastatic sites. For example, CAL-72 represents a resistant osteosarcoma. For specific paired model inquiries, please contact our technical support to discuss availability for your research needs.