Neurite Degeneration in Human Neuronal SH-SY5Y Cells as an Indicator of Axonopathy

Neurotoxicological testing is mainly based on experimental animal models, but several cell and tissue culture models have been developed to study the mechanisms of neurotoxicity. In general, cells of human origin are attractive alternatives to the animal models for extrapolation of toxicity on humans. The characteristics, culture conditions and usefulness of the human neuroblastoma cell line SH-SY5Y as a model for axonopathy are presented in this chapter. It is described how the cell line can be differentiated to mature neurons by using serum-free “N2” medium supplemented with retinoic acid. Detailed protocols for the determination of neurite degeneration and general cytotoxicity are presented.