ELI5: Explain Like I'm 5

Madin-Darby canine kidney cells

Madin-Darby Canine Kidney (MDCK) cells are tiny living things that are found in the kidneys of dogs. They are so small that you can't see them without a microscope! These cells are special because they can be used in scientific experiments to study how things work in our bodies.

Scientists use MDCK cells to test new medicines and vaccines, to study how viruses and bacteria infect our bodies, and to learn about how our bodies function. MDCK cells are easy to work with - scientists can grow a large number of them in a small space, and they grow very quickly.

MDCK cells are named after two scientists who discovered them - Dr. Madin and Dr. Darby. Canine means "related to dogs," and kidney refers to the organ in the dog's body where these cells are found.

So next time you hear about MDCK cells, just remember that they are tiny cells found in dogs' kidneys, and scientists use them to learn more about our bodies and how they work.