SH-SY5Y Cells Catalogue number: 300154

SH-SY5Y Cells: A Versatile Model for Neurodegenerative Disease Research

SH-SY5Y cells, a subclone derived from the SK-N-SH neuroblastoma cancer cell line, are a cornerstone of neurobiology research. Originating in 1970 from a biopsy of a metastatic bone tumor in a 4-year-old cancer patient, these human cells offer a unique platform for exploring the mechanisms of neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.

Key Characteristics and Growth Properties
SH-SY5Y cells exhibit both adherent and suspension growth, forming clusters during division. This undifferentiated state provides a robust foundation for neuroscientific studies. Upon neuronal differentiation, these cells undergo morphological and functional changes that mimic various neuron types, making them ideal for functional studies in neurodegenerative research.

Neuronal Differentiation
Neuronal differentiation of SH-SY5Y cells transforms them into neuron-like cells with enhanced physiological relevance. This process is achieved using:

Retinoic Acid
Neurotrophic Factors (e.g., Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor)
Extracellular Matrix Proteins
Serum Deprivation
Differentiated SH-SY5Y cells express neuronal markers, enabling studies of neurotoxicity, neuroprotection, and the cellular mechanisms underlying neurodegenerative diseases.

Functional Neurobiology
SH-SY5Y cells are well-suited for studying dopaminergic systems due to their inherent dopaminergic characteristics. Under specific differentiation conditions, these cells also exhibit limited cholinergic activity, evidenced by acetylcholinesterase expression. While their utility in cholinergic neurotransmission research is modest, SH-SY5Y cells remain invaluable for exploring dopaminergic pathways.

Applications in Neurotoxicology
As a neurotoxicological model, SH-SY5Y cells are instrumental in studying the effects of various compounds on acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase activities. These studies are essential for understanding the impact of environmental pollutants and other neurotoxic agents on human neuron-like cells.

Contribution to Neurodegenerative Disease Research
The SH-SY5Y cell line is widely used to investigate biochemical pathways associated with neurodegenerative diseases. Its relevance in functional studies of dopaminergic and cholinergic systems highlights its importance in neuroscience research, particularly in understanding the mechanisms underlying conditions such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease.

Conclusion
SH-SY5Y cells are an indispensable tool in neurobiology and neurodegenerative research. Their ability to differentiate into neuron-like cells and mimic specific neuronal systems makes them a versatile and reliable model for studying neurodegenerative diseases, neurotoxicology, and cellular neurobiology