In the field of biotechnology and medicine, the preservation of biologics plays a crucial role in advancing scientific research and improving patient care. Biologics, which include vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, and cell-based therapies, are complex and delicate substances that require careful handling and storage to maintain their integrity and efficacy. Among the various methods of preservation, cell banking stands out as a reliable and effective solution. In this article, we will delve into the importance of cell banking and how it contributes to the preservation of biologics.
Understanding cell banking
Cell banking involves the collection, characterisation, and storage of biological material, primarily cells, under controlled conditions. The purpose of cell banking is to create a renewable source of cells that can be utilized in research, development, and manufacturing processes. By preserving cells through cell banking, scientists and medical professionals can ensure the availability of consistent and reproducible biologics for current and future use.
Maintaining cell viability and stability
One of the primary reasons cell banking is vital in preserving biologics is its ability to maintain cell viability and stability over extended periods. Cells stored in a well-established cell bank can retain their functionality, genetic integrity, and desired characteristics. This ensures that biologics derived from these cells remain consistent and effective, even after storage for long durations.
Cell line authentication
Accurate identification and authentication of cell lines are essential to prevent misidentification and contamination, which could lead to erroneous research outcomes or compromised safety of biologics. Cell banking incorporates rigorous protocols for cell line authentication, ensuring that the stored cells are genetically stable and traceable. By utilising authenticated cell lines, scientists can trust the results of their experiments and have confidence in the quality and safety of the biologics they produce.
Long-term storage
Cell banking enables long-term storage of cells, allowing researchers to preserve valuable and rare cell lines for future use. This is particularly crucial for biologics derived from cells that are difficult to obtain or cultures that take considerable effort and time to establish. By storing cells in a well-maintained cell bank, researchers can avoid the need for repetitive isolation and characterization processes, saving valuable time and resources.
Facilitating research and development
Cell banking serves as a valuable resource for research and development efforts. By providing a diverse collection of cell lines, it enables scientists to explore various avenues of research and accelerate the discovery of novel biologics. Researchers can access cells from the bank, reducing the time spent on cell culturing and focusing on their core experiments. This expedites the development of new therapies, vaccines, and diagnostic tools, ultimately benefiting patients worldwide.
Ensuring quality control
Quality control is a critical aspect of preserving biologics, and cell banking contributes significantly to this process. Through comprehensive testing and characterization, cells in a cell bank undergo quality control measures to ensure their suitability for use in research and manufacturing. This includes assessing cell viability, growth characteristics, genetic stability, and absence of contaminants. By adhering to stringent quality control standards, cell banking guarantees that the biologics produced from these cells meet the required specifications for safety, efficacy, and reproducibility.
Takeaway
Preserving biologics through cell banking is a crucial step in advancing scientific research, drug development, and patient care. By maintaining cell viability and stability, facilitating long-term storage, and ensuring quality control, cell banking provides researchers and manufacturers with a reliable source of cells to produce consistent and effective biologics. As technology continues to advance alongside companies like Wheeler Bio, the importance of cell banking will only grow, fostering innovation and progress in the field of biotechnology and medicine.
Adam Mulligan, a psychology graduate from the University of Hertfordshire, has a keen interest in the fields of mental health, wellness, and lifestyle.
