ABSTRACT
The cell culture laboratory is a sophisticated, meticulous, detail-oriented environment that relies on well-practiced features of cell biology while incorporating the latest instrumentation of biotechnology. The equipment, supplies, and analytical instruments are important aspects of the cell culture laboratory and are relied on for sensitive detection of cellular events. As the technology has advanced, so has the laboratory environment. Consequently, several important features of the cell culture laboratory are essential, including the following and other aspects of cell and tissue culture discussed in subsequent sections:
1. Sterile air flow work station 2. Temperature-controlled incubator 3. Autoclave 4. Cell counter 5. Custom gas tanks 6. Source of ultrapure water
Biological safety cabinets (Class II) reduce microbial contamination and also protect operators from exposure (Figure 12.1). These units are used for handling mammalian cells and also potentially infectious microorganisms, thus removing microbes within the sterile atmosphere while simultaneously protecting the operator from exposure. Alternatively, laminar flow hoods are unidirectional air flow vents that isolate the operating environment by blowing sterile air over the surface of the working platform or table top out toward the operator, rendering the operator vulnerable to exposure. This apparatus is generally reserved for preparation of sterile cell culture media, pharmaceutical injectables, and solutions.
