Small-scale microcarrier cultures play a crucial role in process development, allowing researchers to refine conditions before scaling up to larger bioreactors. However, managing small-scale cultures requires careful optimisation to ensure reliable and reproducible results. Here are five essential tips to enhance your small-scale microcarrier culture and set the foundation for successful scale-up. Use a Non-Adherent [...]
Cartilage injuries are difficult to treat due to the tissue’s limited ability to regenerate. Unlike other tissues, cartilage lacks blood vessels, nerves, and lymphatic supply, which are essential for delivering nutrients and immune cells to support healing. As a result, damaged cartilage often fails to repair itself, leading to degeneration and conditions such as [...]
The mechanical properties of the extracellular matrix (ECM) play a crucial role in directing stem cell fate. According to the research by Na et al. (2024), published in Biomaterials, mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) cultured on ECMs with different stiffness levels show significant differences in chromatin organisation and gene expression, ultimately driving lineage-specific differentiation.This study provides [...]
The recent FDA approval of Mesoblast’s Ryoncil™, an allogeneic bone-marrow mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) therapy, marks a significant milestone in regenerative medicine and cell therapy. This long-anticipated decision provides new hope for patients with steroid-refractory acute Graft-versus-Host Disease (GvHD) and sets a regulatory precedent for future MSC-based therapies worldwide. The International Society for Cell & [...]
We are excited to announce our partnership with TCS Biosciences Ltd, a trusted leader in laboratory reagents and test kits, now serving as the official distributor of Smart MCs products in the UK and Europe. This partnership will make our smart microcarriers, hydrogels, and microfluidics tools more accessible to researchers across these regions. About TCS [...]
Adherent cell culture is essential for many biotechnological applications, including stem cell expansion, vaccine production, and therapeutic manufacturing. A recent study by Seohyun Park, Hyunwoo Kim, and Duk Jae Oh, published in Biotechnology and Bioprocess Engineering (2024), introduces a funnel-type fluidized bed reactor that improves the efficiency and stability of microcarrier-based cell culture systems. [...]
As we close the chapter on 2024 and welcome the opportunities of 2025, we take a moment to reflect on the journey, celebrate achievements, and express our sincere gratitude to everyone who has been part of it. 2024: A Year of Innovation and Progress This past year has been a pivotal one for Smart [...]
The FDA has approved Ryoncil (remestemcel-L-rknd), the first mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) therapy for steroid-refractory acute graft-versus-host disease (SR-aGVHD) in pediatric patients aged two months and older. This approval is a monumental milestone for regenerative medicine, offering a critical treatment option for a condition with limited alternatives and setting the stage [...]
The cell culture industry is evolving to meet the growing demand for cultivated meat, also referred to as lab-grown or cultured meat. This innovative approach produces meat by growing animal cells in controlled environments, bypassing the need for traditional farming. Cultivated meat has the potential to address key global challenges, including reducing greenhouse gas [...]
Agitation is a cornerstone of successful microcarrier-based cell culture, ensuring uniform mixing, nutrient distribution, and oxygenation. However, improper agitation can lead to issues such as aggregate formation or cell damage. Here are five focused tips to help you optimise agitation and achieve consistent results in your microcarrier culture. Know Your Context Different cell types [...]
