Characterization of the BHK-21C5 Cell line and Its Introduction for use in Research, Diagnostics and Production of Biological Products

Background and Objectives: Several studies have been carried out on the use of cell lines in researches, production and processing of drugs and biological products, and on the identification of toxicity and efficacy.The present study was conducted to determine the characteristics of BHK-21 cell lines as a suitable substrate for use in vaccine production and quality control, viral culture and research and diagnostic studies. Materials and Methods: In this study cloning of the cells by limit dilution was performed by preparing the appropriate seed cells. After checking the cell growth characteristics, sterility tests performed to ensure the absence of bacterial, fungal, mycoplasma, and mycobacterial infections.  Detection of chromosomal diversity by karyotyping and cell identity using molecular tests along the CHO,LK,RBK,MRC5,Vero,GL cell lines was done. Also, master cell seed was tested for detection of adventitious viruses in two methods:  in direct way through cytopathic effect during incubation of cell cultures and in indirect method using hemadsorption test, inculation into embryonic eggs, injection into mature and newborn mice. Results: The results indicated, this cell line had suitable growth charestristics without cross contaminations. Also the cell identity was confirmed by karyotyping and molecular tests.   Conclusion:The results of various tests indicated that this cell line has the necessary requirements for use in the production and quality control of the biological products and viral researches.