The CASP6 Knockout TE1 Polyclonal Cells constitute a CRISPR/Cas9-edited polyclonal population derived from the human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) cell line TE1, engineered to disrupt the CASP6 gene. This product provides a heterogenic pool of cells with targeted gene disruption, enabling loss-of-function studies without the limitations of single-cell clonal selection. The polyclonal format preserves phenotypic diversity while ensuring robust CASP6 depletion, making it suitable for pooled functional screens and population-level analyses of caspase-6-dependent processes.
TE1 is a well-characterized human esophageal squamous cell carcinoma cell line, established from a poorly differentiated primary ESCC. These cells serve as a clinically relevant model for investigating esophageal cancer biology, including tumor proliferation, metastasis, and chemoresistance. TE1 cells express hallmark epithelial markers and exhibit aggressive in vitro growth characteristics, providing an appropriate context for evaluating the role of apoptosis regulators in ESCC pathogenesis.
CASP6 encodes caspase-6, an effector caspase that executes apoptosis by cleaving substrates such as lamin A/C, PARP, and cytokeratin 18. It is activated by initiator caspases (caspase-8, caspase-9) and granzyme B, and is regulated by p53 and pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 proteins. Caspase-6 interacts with XIAP, Apaf-1, and FADD in the apoptotic network and plays a role in nuclear lamina breakdown and inflammatory responses. Beyond cell death, caspase-6 is implicated in neurodegeneration, with roles in Alzheimer’s, Huntington’s, and Parkinson’s disease pathways.
Disruption of CASP6 in TE1 cells enables dissection of caspase-6-dependent apoptosis and its contribution to esophageal cancer cell survival, drug resistance, and inflammatory signaling. Aberrant caspase-6 expression occurs in esophageal carcinoma, where apoptosis evasion is critical. This knockout model facilitates studies on how CASP6 loss alters chemosensitivity, migration, invasion, and p53-mediated responses. The polyclonal population mimics intratumoral heterogeneity, offering a realistic context for functional studies.
Applications include annexin V/PI flow cytometry for apoptosis quantification, Western blotting for lamin A/C and PARP cleavage, caspase-6 activity assays, drug sensitivity and migration/invasion assays, and synthetic lethality screens. This product is a valuable tool for researchers investigating programmed cell death in cancer and neurodegeneration. For technical specifications, pricing, or to place an order, please contact Ascent Research.
