Isolation and properties of LC3 cells, a new cold-resistant L cell subline.

LC3 cells, selected from the L-As cells by repeated exposures to 4 degrees C for 3--6 weeks with intermittent reincubations at 36 degrees C, differ from the initial population by better survival at 4 degrees C, more rapid recovery at 36 degrees C, a higher multiplication at subnormal temperature, a higher sensitivity to supranormal temperature, increased cell size at 36 degrees and 4 degrees C, and higher oxygen consumption at 36 degrees C. These properties are the same as those described in our previously isolated cold-resistant L cell variants and are typical for the resistance to low temperature. The increased activity of alkaline phosphatase, detected in two of our cold-resistant L cell sublines, was not found in the LC3 cells and has thus no relation to decreased cold sensitivity.