Question

What is the function of microcarrier beads?

(a) To give the cells the shape of beads

(b) It provides non-buoyancy condition

(c) It helps in the lysis of cells

(d) It provides protection and surface area

I had been asked this question by my school teacher while I was bunking the class.

This intriguing question originated from Role of Shear in Stirred Fermenters topic in portion Fluid Flow and Mixing of Bioprocess Engineering

Answer 1

Correct choice is (d) It provides protection and surface area

Explanation: The microcarrier beads are used to increase the number of adherent cells per flask and are either dextran or glass based, they come in a range of densities and sizes. The beads are buoyant and therefore can be used with spinner culture flasks. The surface area available for cell growth on these beads is huge. It is a support matrix allowing for the growth of adherent cells in bioreactors.