Work

Misidentification of SMMC-7721 undermines its use as a hepatocellular carcinoma model

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: SMMC-7721 has long been used as a presumed human hepatocellular carcinoma model, but authentication studies have shown that it is HeLa-derived rather than a genuine liver cancer cell line. This short communication discusses the consequences of using SMMC-7721 as an HCC model in a recent study on quercetin-induced immunogenic cell death and cGAS-STING pathway activation in hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Because data generated in SMMC-7721 reflect a HeLa-derived cellular background, conclusions regarding anti-HCC activity, liver-cancer-specific mechanisms, compound selectivity, and therapeutic relevance require qualification or reassessment in authenticated hepatocellular carcinoma models. The commentary emphasizes the importance of cell-line authentication, appropriate model selection, and transparent reporting to ensure reliability and reproducibility in preclinical liver cancer research.

Source: Naunyn-Schmiedeberg s Archives of Pharmacology

DOI: 10.1007/s00210-026-05868-8

Author: Ralf Weiskirchen

Institutions: Universitätsklinikum Aachen, RWTH Aachen University

Language: English

Topic: Hepatocellular Carcinoma Treatment and Prognosis

Subfield: Hepatology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,790