HEK293 is a cell line derived from human embryonic kidney cells grown in tissue culture. They are the preferred option for expressing proteins for use as antigens, reagents, or for structural analysis, as these cells are from a human source and thus generate human post-translational modifications. Additionally, HEK293 cells are very easy to grow, relatively easy to transfect and express high levels of protein using robust protocols.

Figure 1. HEK293 cells grown in culture.