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THEORY:

Cell culture studies are significantly reducing the need for animal research. Cell cultures contain living cells that grow in laboratory dishes and that scientists call in-vitro (in glass) cells. These cultures grow in nutrients (growth factors) collectively referred to as medium. There are tens of thousands of cell types. They come from human volunteers, animals, bacteria and plants.

Toxicologists often use cell cultures to study the effects of natural and artificial substances on the genes of plants and animals, including genetic mutations. If a compound “passes” mutagenicity studies, it graduates to carcinogenecity studies, which are required by the FDA. In • they are supplied with a liquid solution containing the nutrients necessary for cell growth. This is called growth medium (GM) and contains: the correct balance of salts, an energy source, vitamins, aminoacids and animal serum.

• they are provided with a suitable surface which allows them...

Posted by: Veronica Gardner

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