Normal Human Epidermal Melanocytes 3 (NHEM 3)

Rigid quality control tests are performed for each lot of Normal Human Epidermal Melanocytes. They are tested for cell morphology, adherence rate and cell viability. Furthermore, immunohistochemical tests for the cell-type specific marker, Mel-5, are carried out for each lot. Growth performance is tested through multiple passages up to 15 population doublings (PD) under culture conditions without antibiotics and antimycotics. In addition, all cells have been tested for the absence of HIV-1, HIV-2, HBV, HCV, HTLV-1, HTLV-2 and microbial contaminants (fungi, bacteria, and mycoplasma).

Primary Normal Human Epidermal Melanocytes (NHEM) are isolated from the epidermis of adult skin (different locations) and are provided in a cryopreserved format. Melanocytes are located in the stratum basale, but branch out between the keratinocytes in suprabasal layers. About 5-10 % of the cells in the epidermis are melanocytes. The main purpose of melanocytes is the production of melanin, the protein responsible for the pigmentation of the skin, eyes, and hair. Melanin protects the cells in the skin and in deeper layers from the hazardous effects of UV radiation. It is produced and stored in melanosomes, which are located close to the melanocyte membrane, but it can also be transferred to neighboring keratinocytes.


Normal Human Epidermal Melanocytes M3 are isolated using the serum-free, BPE-free and PMA-free Melanocyte Growth Medium M3. Since PMA is a tumor promoting mitogen, it can interfere with experimental approaches. Therefore, we recommend using cells isolated in Melanocyte Growth Medium M3 and also using this medium for cultivation. Normal Human Epidermal Keratinocytes (NHEK) and Normal Human Dermal Fibroblasts (NHDF) from the same donor are available on request.

Although tested negative for HIV-1, HIV-2, HBV, HCV, HTLV-1 and HTLV-2, the cells – like all products of human origin – should be handled as potentially infectious. No test procedure can completely guarantee the absence of infectious agents.

Lot specific orders are not able to be placed through the web. Contact your local sales rep for more details.

Recommended Plating Density: 5000 - 10000 cells per cm²
Passage After Thawing: P2
Tested Markers: Mel-5 positive
Guaranteed population doublings: > 15

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Melanocyte Growth Medium M3 (C-24310)