Beginner's Guide To Mesenchymal Stem Cell Culture With The SciVario® Twin Bioprocess Control Station

By Min Tang-Schomer and Ma Sha, Eppendorf, Inc.

Challenges in scaling up mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) production are largely due to the adherent nature of MSCs, which requires them to be cultured on a surface. Microcarriers offer a solution by enabling the transition from traditional 2D culture to 3D stirred-tank bioreactor systems. However, this transition requires a carefully controlled workflow to ensure successful cell growth and quality.

This guide provides a foundational approach for culturing MSCs in stirred-tank bioreactors, including methods for initial cell expansion in flasks and preparing the inoculum for bioreactor runs. It details key steps like setting up the bioreactor and controller, optimizing cell adhesion to microcarriers, and controlling critical process parameters such as dissolved oxygen and gassing. By following the straightforward workflow and proven strategies, like bead-to-bead transfer, you can confidently scale up MSC cultures for research and development.