Cell culture is the removal of a cell from certain organisms so cells can be cultivated in an artificial environment. It is an essential tool in cellular and molecular biology that helps in understanding the aging process of the cells, their reaction to drugs and toxic compounds, and cell mutation— including the transformation of healthy cells into cancer cells. It is also significant in producing vaccines and therapeutic proteins.
In the field of science and research, cell culture has opened new possibilities and discoveries. Its esteemed importance is a product of its complex process but there are risks that come along with it. Human and animal cell subjects are to be handled with utmost caution as they may contain viruses or mutagenic reagents that constitute risks to other samples and the researchers. Safe practices in a cell culture laboratory need to be carried out. Below are the DOs and DON’Ts when handling cell culture:
The DOs
