TM3 Cells

TM3 Cells are a unique cell line derived from 11 to 13-day-old male mouse Leydig cells, exhibiting adherent growth properties. These cells are non-tumorigenic, as they do not cause tumors in immunosuppressed mice, although they can form colonies in semisolid medium. They express the gene for prostaglandin F2a and are characterized by several expression markers including Luteinizing hormone (LH), Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF), and positive markers for androgen, estrogen, and progesterone receptors. A notable feature of TM3 cells is their response to LH, which leads to an increase in cAMP production; however, they do not respond to follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). The maintenance of LH responsiveness is serum lot-dependent. Additionally, in the presence of LH, these cells can metabolize cholesterol. They have been tested and found negative for ectromelia virus (mousepox), ensuring a high standard of safety for laboratory use.