Non-Enzymatic Methods for Gentle Cell Detachment
Cell harvesting is a crucial step in bioprocessing, where preserving cell viability and function during detachment is paramount. For detailed market insights and advancements, explore the Cell Harvesting Market. While enzymatic methods such as trypsinization are commonly used, they can sometimes damage cell membranes and affect downstream applications. Non-enzymatic methods offer a gentler alternative, minimizing cell stress and improving recovery.
These methods include temperature-responsive surfaces, chelating agents, and mechanical approaches. Temperature-responsive polymers allow cells to adhere at normal culture temperatures but release when cooled, preserving surface proteins critical for cell signaling. Chelating agents disrupt calcium-dependent adhesion without enzymatic cleavage, reducing cell damage.
Mechanical methods such as gentle shaking or low-speed centrifugation can also detach cells, especially in suspension cultures or microcarrier systems.
Non-enzymatic detachment is particularly valuable for sensitive cells like stem cells or primary cultures, where maintaining native characteristics is essential.