786-O cells are a human renal cell carcinoma cell line derived from a primary clear cell adenocarcinoma of the kidney. This cell line is frequently used in the study of renal cell carcinoma (RCC), providing valuable insights into the biological characteristics and treatment responses of this cancer type. The 786-O cell line exhibits a clear cell morphology, typical of the most common form of kidney cancer, and is characterized by specific genetic alterations, including the loss of the von Hippel-Lindau (VHL) tumor suppressor gene. This genetic feature is significant as it plays a crucial role in the pathogenesis of many clear cell renal carcinomas by influencing hypoxia-inducible pathways, which are central to cellular responses to low oxygen conditions. These cells are particularly useful for studying the molecular mechanisms involved in tumor growth and survival, including pathways related to angiogenesis, metabolism, and cell cycle regulation. Due to their VHL deficiency, 786-O cells are an excellent model for researching the effects of hypoxia and for testing drugs that target hypoxia-related pathways. In addition to their application in basic cancer research, 786-O cells are also used in preclinical studies to evaluate the efficacy of new therapeutic agents, especially those targeting the angiogenic processes driven by the overexpression of hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs). This includes therapies that inhibit the HIF pathway, tyrosine kinase inhibitors, and immune checkpoint inhibitors. Overall, 786-O cells provide a robust model for advancing our understanding of the molecular underpinnings of renal cell carcinoma and for developing targeted therapies that could improve treatment outcomes for patients with this challenging disease.
