The LLC-MK₂ line was derived from a pooled cell suspension prepared from kidneys removed from six adult Rhesus monkeys by R. N. Hull, W. R. Cherry and I. S. Johnson (Anat. Rec. 124: 490, 1956). The cells form a contiguous monolayer that can be maintained for several weeks. The LLC-MK₂ cells have been reported to be susceptible to a broad range of viruses that includes members of the enterovirus, rhinovirus, myxovirus, and poxvirus groups (Natl. Cancer Inst. Monograph 7: 161, 1962; J. Exp. Med. 115: 903, 1962).

Culture Medium
Minimum essential medium (Eagle), with 10% heat-inactivated fetal bovine serum.

Growth Characteristics
Cells seeded at a concentration of 2x10⁴ cells/cm² in the above culture medium will be 100% confluent in 5 days.

Plating Efficiency
Less than 1%.

Morphology
Epithelial-like.

Karyology
Chromosome Frequency Distribution 100 Cells: 2n = 42. No marker chromosomes noted.

Species
Confirmed as monkey by immunofluorescence.

Common Utilization
Susceptible to Poliovirus type 1; as well as Coxsackie A; Coxsackie B; Echovirus; Influenza A, B; Mumps; and Parainfluenza.