Optosensoric on-line monitoring of oxygen and pH kinetics

Hydrogel-based 3D cell culture systems offer particular advantages for tissue-engineering in cell-based therapy for disc-degeneration. However, light microscopical control of both culture quality and morphological differentiation is not possible within this dense matrix. For a judgement of the quality, alternative parameters have to be considered.

In the present study, availability of oxygen within culture medium and kinetics of the pH value are analysed in this regard. Both parameters are key factors for a successful and reliable in vitro cultivation and differentiation.

Karin Benz and Jürgen Mollenhauer, Regenerative Medizin II, NMI Reutlingen, Markwiesenstraße 55, 72770 Reutlingen, Germany