Further Characterization of the WI-L1 and WI-L2 Lymphoblastoid Lines

Summary

The WI-L1 and WI-L2 lymphoblastoid lines are further characterized. WI-L1 originally harbored the Epstein-Barr (EB) virus, which, however, disappeared after 6 months in culture. No other virus infection could be detected in any of the cell lines. Antibodies to EB virus were demonstrated in both cell line donors and in the entire family of the WI-L2 donor, which suggests that EB virus may have been a factor in the easy establishment of the cell lines. A subline of cells from WI-L1 with a unique #1 chromosome marker has been established. Both WI-L1 and WI-L2 cell lines have a significant production of immunoglobulins.