Mouse Lung Fibroblasts-Immortalized by SV40T Antigens

Fibroblasts are the most abundant cell type in the pulmonary interstitium. These fibroblasts are similar to common fibroblasts but also possess unique characteristics, such as long pseudopods and intercellular gap junctions. The primary function of lung fibroblasts is to secrete type III collagen, elastin, and proteoglycans into the alveolar septal matrix. They also play a crucial role in repair and reconstruction when the lungs are damaged. After a lung injury, a certain degree of fibroblast accumulation at the site of inflammation is a critical step for pulmonary recovery; however, either excessive or insufficient fibroblast accumulation can lead to abnormal lung function. These cells were immortalized by lentiviral transduction carrying the SV40 gene, granting them unlimited proliferative capacity. The SV40 T-antigen can alter terminal cell differentiation, induce cells into S-phase, and bypass normal cell cycle checkpoints, thereby achieving immortalization.