HEL cells have been utilized in various studies investigating erythroid differentiation pathways, erythroleukemia pathogenesis, and drug screening assays targeting erythroid disorders or leukemia. They serve as a valuable tool for understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying erythroid differentiation and for identifying potential therapeutic targets for erythroid-related diseases. Creative Biolabs, dedicated to exploring the latest developments in the field of macrophages, has launched a HEL-based macrophage model development service.

HEL Cells

HEL cells are a human erythroleukemia cell line that was established from the peripheral blood of a patient with acute erythroleukemia. These cells are commonly used in research as a model system for studying erythroid differentiation, erythroleukemia biology, and the effects of various compounds on erythroid cell growth and differentiation.

Key features of HEL cells include their ability to undergo erythroid differentiation in response to inducers such as hemin, dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO), or sodium butyrate. They can differentiate into more mature erythrocytic forms, exhibiting characteristics such as hemoglobin synthesis and enucleation under appropriate culture conditions.

HEL-based Macrophage Model Development Service at Creative Biolabs

Although HEL cells are primarily used to study erythrocyte differentiation and erythroleukemia, developing macrophage models from HEL cells is unconventional. However, based on in-depth research on macrophages and equipped with advanced technology platforms, Creative Biolabs provides services for the development of HEL-based macrophage models to explore the potential of HEL cells for macrophage differentiation.

Display Results

HEL cells in suspension cultures
Fig.1 HEL cells in suspension cultures.1	HEL cells show a large amount of cytoplasmic pseudopodia when trying to adhere after the addition of TPA. Twenty-four hours after TPA addition, most cells adhere firmly and show considerable cytoplasmic spread.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Why choose the HEL-based macrophage model?

A1:

• HEL cells are of erythroid lineage, so the resulting macrophage-like cells might exhibit characteristics of both erythroid and myeloid lineages.
• After differentiation, the HEL-derived macrophage-like cells might express some myeloid markers, albeit at lower levels or with altered kinetics compared to conventional macrophages. Markers such as CD11b, CD14, or CD68 might be present, but their expression patterns could vary.
• Transcriptomic analysis of HEL-derived macrophage-like cells might reveal a unique gene expression profile reflecting their dual lineage origin. Genes associated with both erythroid and myeloid lineages might be upregulated or downregulated compared to conventional macrophages.

Q2: What are the limitations of the HEL-based macrophage model?

A2: Macrophage differentiation using HEL cells requires careful validation and characterization because they are not native myeloid lines. Additionally, this model may have limitations compared to established myeloid cell lines such as HL-60 or THP-1.

As an unusual macrophage model, Creative Biolabs has the expertise and experience to help you complete your project. Please leave your project to us with confidence. If you still have questions about setting up a HEL macrophage model, you can get in touch with our scientists for assistance.