New TMPRSS2-Expressing Cell Line for COVID-19 Research

We are offering a brand new cell line to assist researchers in the fight against COVID-19.
The cell line (JCRB1819), developed by Dr. Takeda at the National Institute of Infectious Diseases in Japan, is cited in two peer-reviewed publications, “Enhanced isolation of SARS-CoV-2 by TMPRSS2-expressing cells” (PNAS 2020) and “Consensus and variations in cell line specificity among human metapneumovirus strains” (PLoS One 2019).

JCRB1819 cells were found in the 2020 paper linked above to be “highly susceptible” to infection by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), and therefore can be used to isolate and propagate the virus for research and treatment/vaccine development for COVID-19. Importantly, results from the study “reveal that, in common with SARS- and Middle East respiratory syndrome-CoV, SARS-CoV-2 infection is enhanced by TMPRSS2.”

These VeroE6 cells, expressing the transmembrane serine protease TMPRSS2, are isolated from African Green monkey tissue. The cells are epithelial-like in morphology and come in a medium of 10% FBS-DMEM, Penicillin (100 unit/mL), Streptomycin (100 µg/mL), Geneticin (G418) (1mg/ml), at 5% CO₂ concentration.

This cell line is now available to researchers through the Japanese Collection of Research Bioresources (JCRB) cell bank. As the exclusive provider of JCRB’s extensive resource catalogue to North American customers, we offer access to over 1,300 unique cells lines suitable to many different fields of research.

North American clients can work directly with XenoTech representatives to streamline the order process, making it easy for clients to order their JCRB cell lines without having to worry about shipping and customs. European customers will be able to get the JCRB1819 (VeroE6/TMPRSS2) from NIBSC (National Institute for Biological Standards and Control) and other inquiries should be directed to JCRB.

To place an order, contact our Products Specialists or proceed to order online through the JCRB website (payment will not be due at time of order) and XenoTech will take care of the rest. Here’s a quick guide help you use the JCRB order form. If you have questions about the order process, simply submit a contact form or email info@xenotechllc.com and one of our product specialists will be in touch to help you shortly!

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