​Epithelial primary cells are fundamental to understanding various physiological and pathological processes in the human body. These cells, directly isolated from epithelial tissues, maintain their native characteristics, making them invaluable for research in tissue development, disease modeling, and therapeutic testing.​

Isolation and Culture Techniques

Advancements in cell isolation methods have significantly improved the viability and functionality of epithelial primary cells in vitro. Traditional enzymatic digestion methods, such as trypsinization, have been shown to cause collateral damage to cells. To address this, researchers have developed modified techniques using a combination of hyaluronidase and collagenase I, which better preserve the physiological properties of epithelial cells during isolation. ​

Applications in Disease Modeling

Primary epithelial cell cultures serve as accurate models for studying various diseases. For instance, human airway epithelial (HAE) cells are widely used to study airway physiology and diseases like cystic fibrosis. In vitro-expanded and differentiated primary HAE cells collected from patients provide a relevant model, offering a quicker and more cost-effective alternative to induced pluripotent stem cell models. However, a significant challenge is their limited proliferative lifespan in culture, which necessitates ongoing research to improve their longevity and functionality. 

Significance in Cancer Research

Epithelial cells are central to cancer research, particularly in understanding tumor initiation and progression. Studies have shown that specific populations of epithelial cells can undergo transformations leading to cancer. For instance, research has identified that basal cell carcinoma originates from cells in the interfollicular epidermis and infundibulum rather than hair follicles, providing new insights into the origins of skin cancer.