Introducing AEX-1
A Novel Vero Cell Line for Efficient Influenza Virus Production and Isolation.
The AEX-1 cell line was developed by co-culturing Vero cells with the amniotic membranes of chicken embryos in serum-free OptiPro medium. This innovative process resulted in a cell line with distinct morphology and properties compared to the original Vero cells.
One feature is the ability to support robust replication of multiple influenza strains at exceptionally low infection multiplicities and facilitate high-efficiency rescue of influenza viruses via plasmid transfection. Notably, AEX-1 cells produce influenza A and B virus titers comparable to those obtained in embryonated chicken eggs, presenting a promising platform for efficient and scalable vaccine production.
Beyond vaccine manufacturing, AEX-1 cells serve as an excellent substrate for virus isolation from clinical samples, offering advantages in diagnostic applications. These adherent cells are available as a fully characterized working cell bank, with NUCELL holding a patent application for their development and commercialization.
Studies in nude mice demonstrated an absence of tumorogenic activity.
Patent for AEX-1 is filed.