How can bioreactors help us to grow cells and tissues? - by Yvonne Reinwald
(Hydrostatic force bioreactor - authors own image)
In the human body, cells are exposed to a variety of physical forces. These include stretching and pulling in the tendon and compression of the spinal cord during daily movement. Other examples are pulsation in the blood vessels due to the heart beat and hydrostatic compression in the knee during jumping and walking. These forces are essential to maintain cell morphology and tissue function.
(Rotary bioreactor - authors own image)
Researchers use bioreactors to mimic these forces in the laboratory. This helps stem cells develop into specific tissue types, such as bone or cartilage in the knee. Numerous different types of these mechanical devices have been developed.
In addition to providing a physical stimulus for cells, bioreactors are also used to scale-up the growth of stem cells when high numbers of cells are needed for treatments. This is especially helpful for stem cell therapies, where stem cells are injected into patients to help regenerate damaged tissues.