English
In modern biotechnology, cell factories have become essential tools for cultivating cells. However, contamination remains a significant challenge that can disrupt experimental processes. This article explores the primary sources of contamination in cell factories and outlines effective prevention strategies to improve the reliability and stability of cell cultures.
1. Contamination Risk from Animal Tissue Samples
Animal tissues are commonly used as raw materials for cell cultures, but unclean tissue samples are a significant source of contamination. Even sterile tissues can introduce bacteria due to improper handling or insufficient disinfection during sampling. To reduce this risk, tissue samples should be washed with high-concentration antibiotic solutions, and strict aseptic conditions must be maintained during the sampling process.
2. Airborne Microbial Contamination
Airborne microorganisms are abundant, and air pollution in the operating room can be a major contributor to contamination in cell factories. To prevent airborne contamination:
Ensure the operating room is well-isolated from external environments and regularly check and maintain air purification systems.
The filters in workstations should be replaced regularly to prevent dust accumulation, which can compromise filtration efficiency.
Operators should wear masks to minimize interference from external airflows, and special attention should be given to air humidity, particularly in high-humidity seasons, as it can increase the risk of contamination.
3. Impact of Inadequate Cleaning and Sterilization
Insufficient cleaning and sterilization of culture materials and equipment can be another source of contamination. To ensure the sterility of culture media and materials:
Follow standard operating procedures for cleaning and sterilizing all equipment used.
Utilize appropriate sterilization methods, such as autoclaving (steam sterilization) or chemical disinfectants, to ensure that any potential microorganisms are thoroughly eliminated.
4. Contamination Risk During Operations
Improper handling during cell culture operations can introduce contaminants:
Before using equipment and solutions, check carefully to ensure they have been sterilized, and ensure they remain uncontaminated after treatment.
Operators should wear masks and caps to prevent respiratory microorganisms from contaminating the culture environment.
Key areas of the cell factory, such as the liquid inlet, should be wiped with 75% alcohol and subjected to flame sterilization to reduce surface contamination.
Avoid touching non-sterile items during the procedure to minimize contamination caused by improper handling.
Limit loud conversations and unnecessary movement to prevent dust and microorganisms from being disturbed.
5. Potential Contamination in Serum
Commercially available serum may carry viruses or mycoplasma, posing a risk of contamination. Selecting serum products that have undergone rigorous testing and certification is an effective way to reduce this risk. Additionally, filtering and sterilizing the serum can further minimize potential contamination.
Conclusion
The successful application of cell factories depends on the comprehensive identification and effective control of contamination sources. From handling animal tissues to maintaining the operational environment, each step must be strictly monitored. By implementing effective sterilization measures, adhering to detailed operational guidelines, and selecting high-quality raw materials, contamination risks can be significantly reduced, ensuring the quality and stability of cell cultures.
The FAI climbed 5.9 percent year-on-year in the first 11 months of 2018, quickening from the 5.7-percent growth in Jan-Oct, the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) said Friday in an online statement.
The key indicator of investment, dubbed a major growth driver, hit the bottom in August and has since started to rebound steadily.
In the face of emerging economic challenges home and abroad, China has stepped up efforts to stabilize investment, in particular rolling out measures to motivate private investors and channel funds into infrastructure.
Friday's data showed private investment, accounting for more than 60 percent of the total FAI, expanded by a brisk 8.7 percent.
NBS spokesperson Mao Shengyong said funds into weak economic links registered rapid increases as investment in environmental protection and agriculture jumped 42 percent and 12.5 percent respectively, much faster than the average.
In breakdown, investment in high-tech and equipment manufacturing remained vigorous with 16.1-percent and 11.6-percent increases respectively in the first 11 months. Infrastructure investment gained 3.7 percent, staying flat. Investment in property development rose 9.7 percent, also unchanged.