Distinguishing characteristics of a new neuroblastoma cell line.

The characteristics of a new neuroblastoma cell line (MC-NB-1) established from the bone marrow of a 2-year-old male are described. Morphologically, the cells appear as flattened and epithelial-like or as small and spherical. Electron microscopy demonstrated microtubules and dense core secretory granules. The doubling time was approximately 35 hr. Isoenzyme patterns and catecholamine secretion indicated a human line of neuronal origin. The soft agar tumor colony forming system demonstrated drug resistance in vitro comparable to in vivo nonresponsiveness. The stemline karyotype of MC-NB-1 is 44,Y,del(1) (p22:), -4, -7, +del(7)(q22:), -16, +t(7;16)(16pter leads to 16q24::7q22 leads to 7q32), -17. Additionally, double-minute bodies were observed. However, no evidence of homogeneous staining regions (HSRs) were detected.