In order to maintain optimal health, cell cultures should be inspected every day. A daily log should be kept to track all observation conducted on the morphology, density and color of the medium of the cultures. By doing so, even the minutest changes become evident. When writing observations in a log, it is important to note the name of the cell culture being observed, any changes to the standard medium, important dates concerning when the cells were divided and fed, and any other relevant observations.

When observing the growth pattern of cell cultures, it is important to note the stages they go through. In the beginning, the cell culture will be mostly dormant and sluggish, depending on the type of cell it is, and several other factors (i.e., density, prior handling, etc.). After this stage, the cells will grow at a rapid rate initiating their highest metabolic activity. They will then reach a still phase where the number of cell cultures remains constant.

When cell cultures have reached a density that suppresses their growth, they can be harvested. Preferably, cell cultures are harvested when they are in a semi-converged state, and still in the stage of exponential growth. When cells are allowed to grow to a fully converged state, they can be delayed for a long period of time, often never recovering. Keeping the cell cultures as content as possible can help make the most of their transformation. Cells that are passaged or fed at least three times a week are generally the most viable.

The growth requirements of cell cultures are broken into four parts: the physiological strictures (ideal temperature, pH balance, humidity, gas phase, and amount of light), the medium requirements (ions, elements, sugars, amino acids, vitamins, choline and inositol, serum, and antibiotics), feeding (two to three times per week), and lastly the measurement of growth and capability. The measurement of growth can be observed by using a special type of microscope known as an inverted phase microscope. Cells that are live will be phase bright, and can be seen visually through the scope.

When working closely with cell cultures, it is absolutely vital that all safety measures be planned, evaluated and practiced at all times. Regardless of the type of cell culture that is being cultivated and observed, safety is of the utmost importance. Compiling a risk assessment of all aspects of the working process should be standard protocol before proceeding in any manner. There are several steps to ensure the safety of everyone involved.

You should also be very cognizant of potential safety issues. Presuming that each and every cell culture is biologically hazardous is a good place to start. By assuming the probability of hidden toxins, viruses or other uncharacterized organisms being present in each cell culture, it is much less likely the cell culture will be handled without extreme caution. Always use a pipette when transferring liquids. A pipette is a specialized lab instrument designed specifically for the transfer of liquids, and helps prevent against ingestion. A pipette also serves to keep aerosols to a minimum, preventing harmful airborne toxins.

Never eat, drink, or smoke in the laboratory, or anywhere near the cell cultures. There are several obvious reasons why this is not a good idea. Aside from the possibility of an accident within the lab such as spillage, fire, and equipment damage, there is also the risk of altering the chemistry of the cell culture itself and should therefore be avoided.

Always wash hands thoroughly after handling cell cultures. This prevents any chemicals, viruses or bacteria from spreading outside of the lab. Hands should also be washed when entering the lab, as well as before leaving the lab. Hygiene is essential. Decontamination of all work surfaces before and after use is also vital.

Author Bio: I am an accomplished cell culture researcher with papers published in JBC, Cell and Science journals. I recommend using Invitrogen cell culture products and referring to their cell culture basics training on YouTube listed here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_fjZ-MHV22w.

Category: Education
Keywords: cell culture training,cell culture