In a breakthrough that could reshape how we approach cell culture studies, researchers have developed a reusable insert for standard 24-well plates, combining 3D printing and hydrogel scaffolds. This innovation, published in STAR Protocols, which translates to “Standardized Technology and Research Protocols,” is a game-changer for biotechnology and bioengineering, with potential ripples extending to the maritime sector.
At the helm of this research is Saloua Saghir, a scientist from the Department of Microsystems at the University of South-Eastern Norway. Saghir and her team have streamlined the process of preparing hydrogels for cell culture, reducing batch-to-batch variation and cutting costs. “Streamlining hydrogel preparation and mounting minimizes batch-to-batch variation, reduces costs, and supports synthetic biology studies,” Saghir explains.
So, what does this mean for maritime professionals? Well, the maritime industry is increasingly turning to biotechnology for solutions ranging from biofouling prevention to wastewater treatment. This new protocol could make it easier and more affordable to conduct the necessary cell culture studies to develop and test these biotechnological applications.
Moreover, the use of 3D printing in this research highlights the growing role of additive manufacturing in various industries, including maritime. As Saghir notes, “The design and production of the mounter is a crucial part of our protocol.” This could open doors for maritime companies to explore 3D printing for creating custom parts and equipment.
The protocol covers everything from the design and production of the mounter to hydrogel scaffold synthesis, lyophilization for storage, sterilization, and hydrophilization before cell culture. Downstream applications include cytotoxicity assessment, imaging, and qPCR.
In essence, this research is not just a step forward for cell culture studies; it’s a leap towards more efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable biotechnology solutions. And as the maritime industry continues to embrace biotechnology, this protocol could prove to be a valuable tool in its arsenal.
As always, it’s important to note that undertaking any experimental protocol requires adherence to local institutional guidelines for laboratory safety and ethics. But with that in mind, the possibilities are exciting and vast.