Cell lines derived from late embryonic stages of <i>Drosophila melanogaster</i>

TLDR

Insect tissue culture remains a niche area with few established protocols. Primary cultures were derived from trypsinized fragments of 20–24‑hour embryos, with subculture intervals ranging from 3 weeks to 8 months. Three Drosophila melanogaster cell lines were established from late embryos, maintained for over a year, and at least one line originates from imaginal disc cells.

Abstract

ABSTRACT The development of three cell lines initiated from the late embryonic stages of Drosophila melanogaster is described. The primary cultures consisted of trypsinized fragments from embryos 20–24 h old. The length of time between primary culture and subsequent subculture varied from 8 months for the first line to 3 weeks for the third. All three lines have been maintained in vitro for more than a year. The characteristics of each line are given and evidence is presented that at least one line is derived from imaginal disc cells. A few comments on insect tissue culture in general are also made.