Bovine smooth muscle cells are an economical alternative suitable for investigations in cardiac disease and arteriosclerosis, especially in co-culture with species-matched bovine arterial endothelial cells. Proliferation of the smooth muscle cells is considered a key event in the development of advanced lesions.

Bovine large artery smooth muscle cells are derived from tunica intima and tunica media of healthy, fibrous, plaque-free bovine large arteries. They are cryopreserved at the second passage and can be cultured and propagated at least 16 population doublings. Cells are characterized positive for expression of smooth muscle cell specific α-actin.

Storage
Cells are cryopreserved immediately after purification and delivered on dry ice. Place cryovials immediately in liquid nitrogen upon arrival. Store the growth medium at 4°C in the dark. Store the subculture reagent at -20°C upon receipt and at 4°C upon thawing.