135. What is the role of macrophage activating factor (MAF) in an animal cell culture media?
(a)Antiviral ,
(b) Epithelial cell mitogen ,
(c) Inhibits differentiation of embryonic stem cells,
(d) Support growth of activated T cells

The Role of Macrophage Activating Factor (MAF) in Animal Cell Culture Media

In the world of cell culture, the addition of specific growth factors is crucial for supporting the growth, differentiation, and function of various cell types. One such factor is Macrophage Activating Factor (MAF), a molecule known for its ability to influence immune responses. But what role does MAF play in animal cell culture media? Let’s take a deeper dive into the impact of MAF on cell cultures, especially in the context of activated T cell growth.

Understanding MAF and Its Functions

Macrophage Activating Factor (MAF) is a protein involved in the activation of macrophages, which are a type of immune cell responsible for defending the body against infections and stimulating other immune cells. In cell culture, MAF is used to enhance various cellular activities, particularly within the immune system.

Role of MAF in Animal Cell Culture

The most notable function of MAF in animal cell culture media is its ability to support the growth of activated T cells. T cells are a key component of the immune system, playing a vital role in immune responses against pathogens and tumors. When cultured in the presence of MAF, T cells are more likely to proliferate and become activated, which is essential for studying immune responses and developing immunotherapies.

• Supporting T cell growth: MAF aids in enhancing the proliferation and activation of T cells, making it an important addition to cell culture media for immune cell studies.

• Immune response modulation: By activating macrophages, MAF can also indirectly impact other immune cells, creating a more robust immune environment for experimental purposes.

What MAF Does NOT Do

While MAF plays a critical role in immune system activation, it does not:

• Act as an epithelial cell mitogen: This is a function more closely associated with other growth factors that stimulate epithelial cell growth.

• Inhibit differentiation of embryonic stem cells: Instead, MAF focuses more on immune cell activation, and it does not have a known role in stem cell differentiation.

Conclusion

The primary role of Macrophage Activating Factor (MAF) in animal cell culture media is to support the growth of activated T cells. This makes it a valuable tool in immunological research, helping scientists study immune responses and develop therapies that target immune cells. MAF’s involvement in macrophage activation further enhances the immune response, underscoring its importance in experimental settings involving cell-mediated immunity.

Correct Answer:

(d) Support growth of activated T cells