HEK293

HEK293 cells are immortalized human embryonic kidney (HEK) cells. Immortalization was achieved by introducing Ad5 E1A and E1B genes, which interfere with cell cycle control and inhibit apoptosis. The presence of Ad5 enables efficient production of recombinant proteins, particularly those driven by the CMV promoter within plasmid vectors. Typically, HEK293 cells exhibit an epithelial morphology. Their size may vary depending on the culturing conditions, with adherent monolayer cultures displaying flatter and larger cells, while cells in suspension culture appear more spheroid. These cells grow well in DMEM supplemented with fetal bovine serum. They are non-tumorigenic and do not exhibit metastatic behavior.