The stemline modal chromosome number is 45 occurring at 68%, and polyploidy at 1.6%. The only marker chromosome 14 pt is found in the majority (60%) of cells. N3 is tetrasomic and N19 is trisomic. There are two copies of X chromosomes, but no Y-like chromosome. The cell line appears to be of female origin. Note: Cytogenetic information is based on initial seed stock at ATCC. Cytogenetic instability has been reported in the literature for some cell lines.
Derivation
This epithelial cell line was derived from the normal bronchial tissue of a 2- to 3-year-old rhesus monkey. The line was initiated in May, 1978 from tissue explants using glass chips.