Q.51 Choose the CORRECT combination of True (T) and False (F) statements about microcarriers used
in animal cell culture.
P. Higher cell densities can be achieved using microcarriers
Q. Microcarriers increase the surface area for cell growth
R. Microcarriers are used for both anchorage- and nonanchorage-dependent cells
S. Absence of surface charge on microcarriers enhances attachment of cells
(A) P-T, Q-F, R-T and S-F (B) P-T, Q-T, R-F and S-F
(C) P-F, Q-F, R-T and S-T (D) P-F, Q-T, R-F and S-T
Master Microcarriers in Animal Cell Culture
Microcarriers are tiny beads used in animal cell culture to boost anchorage-dependent cell growth by providing more surface area and enabling higher densities in suspension systems like bioreactors. This GATE Biotechnology question tests key facts about their role.
Statements Evaluation
Evaluate each statement based on standard principles of animal cell culture:
| Statement | True/False | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| P. Higher cell densities can be achieved using microcarriers | T | Microcarriers suspend beads in stirred systems, yielding 5-20x higher densities (e.g., 10^7 cells/mL) vs. monolayers due to total bead surface area per volume . |
| Q. Microcarriers increase the surface area for cell growth | T | Spherical beads (100-300 µm) offer high surface-to-volume ratio (e.g., 300 cm²/mL at 5 g/L), far exceeding flask surfaces for adherent cells . |
| R. Microcarriers are used for both anchorage- and nonanchorage-dependent cells | F | Designed for anchorage-dependent cells (e.g., fibroblasts, stem cells) needing adhesion; suspension-adapted nonanchorage cells (e.g., hybridomas) use direct suspension . |
| S. Absence of surface charge on microcarriers enhances attachment of cells | F | Positively charged surfaces (e.g., DEAE-dextran) electrostatically attract negatively charged cell membranes, promoting attachment; neutral/negative hinders it . |
Correct Option
(B) P-T, Q-T, R-F, S-F
Article Introduction (SEO-Optimized Snippet):
Microcarriers used in animal cell culture revolutionize biotech scale-up by enabling higher cell densities and expanded surface area for anchorage-dependent cells. This detailed GATE Biotechnology Q.51 solution breaks down P, Q, R, S statements with T/F explanations, perfect for molecular biology students preparing for exams.
