UGCG Knockout Vero Cell Line

The UGCG Knockout Vero Cell Line is a CRISPR/Cas9-edited knockout cell line established from the Vero host line (Chlorocebus sabaeus). This model features targeted disruption of the UGCG gene via CRISPR/Cas9-mediated genome editing, creating a stable loss-of-function system for UDP-glucose ceramide glucosyltransferase. The knockout line provides a renewable cell-based platform for investigating glycosphingolipid metabolism and ceramide signaling.

Vero cells are an immortalized kidney epithelial line from the African green monkey, characterized by an interferon-deficient phenotype. They are extensively used in virology, vaccine production, and cytotoxicity studies due to their permissiveness to viral replication and lack of interferon-induced antiviral responses. The epithelial morphology and robust growth make them suitable for genetic manipulation and functional genomics.

UGCG encodes UDP-glucose ceramide glucosyltransferase, catalyzing the conversion of ceramide and UDP-glucose to glucosylceramide, the precursor for most glycosphingolipids. Its activity is regulated by upstream factors such as TNF-??, EGF, phorbol esters, and the SP1 transcription factor, and is responsive to cellular stress. The resulting glucosylceramide is further modified into lactosylceramide, globosides, and gangliosides, which are integral components of plasma membranes and lipid rafts. Through this biosynthetic role, UGCG indirectly governs ceramide levels, thus influencing ceramide-mediated signaling pathways that regulate apoptosis, cell growth, and differentiation. The enzyme interacts directly with UDP-glucose and ceramide, as well as with other glycosyltransferases in the pathway.

In the Vero context, UGCG knockout allows study of glycolipid functions without interferon interference. Vero cells naturally lack interferon production, simplifying analysis of viral entry that often depends on cell surface gangliosides. Disruption of UGCG alters glucosylceramide and ceramide balance, potentially sensitizing cells to ceramide-driven apoptosis. This model is therefore valuable for dissecting membrane glycolipid roles in host?Cpathogen interactions and stress signaling.

The UGCG Knockout Vero Cell Line facilitates investigations in glycosphingolipid metabolism, ceramide signaling, cancer biology, and neurodegenerative disorder research. It enables assays such as glucosylceramide synthase activity assays, lipid extraction with TLC/HPLC, immunofluorescence and flow cytometry for cell surface glycolipids, apoptosis and cell viability assays, and RT-qPCR/western blot for related targets. These tools support studies of drug resistance, lipid raft organization, and viral?Chost interactions. For detailed product information and technical support, please contact Ascent Research.