BT-20 Cells

The BT-20 cell line is a human breast adenocarcinoma cell line that was established in 1958 from the malignant tissue of a 74-year-old Caucasian female patient. This cell line exhibits epithelial-like morphology and is often used in research focused on breast cancer biology, particularly in studies exploring the hormonal regulation of cancer growth, gene expression, and the efficacy of therapeutic agents against breast cancer. BT-20 cells are characterized by their ability to form tumors when implanted in immunocompromised mice, thus serving as a useful in vivo model for breast cancer. These cells express receptors for estrogen, progesterone, and androgen, making them relevant for studies on hormone response pathways. Additionally, genetic analysis of BT-20 cells has revealed mutations in genes such as TP53 and PIK3CA, which are common in breast cancer, supporting their use in genetic and pharmacological research. In vitro, BT-20 cells are used to study the mechanisms of cancer cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. They are also employed to assess the cytotoxicity of chemotherapy agents, making them critical for preclinical testing of anti-cancer drugs. The adaptability of BT-20 cells to various culture conditions and their robust growth in vitro make them a valuable resource for cancer research laboratories focusing on the underlying mechanisms of breast cancer and the development of new therapeutic strategies.