Confocal microscope image of embryonic mouse forepaw

Large Scale Laboratory

The Large Scale Laboratory team has almost 40 years of combined cell culture experience, and offers a full consultation service for all requests. Today we grow a wide range of mammalian, insect, yeast and bacterial cells for eight research divisions at NIMR, as well as collaborating with other MRC units, the Marie Curie Research Institute, NIBSC and the Wellcome Trust.

In 2009 we grew 1200 litres of hybridoma cells and 2400 litres of yeast and bacterial cultures. We also routinely maintain stocks of Sf9, S2 and Tn cells and can provide access to a controlled temperature room for large scale insect cell culture work.

For yeast and bacterial fermentation, the laboratory is equipped with two NBS BioFlo bioreactors (maximum volume 80 litres). All common growth requirements: batch, fed batch and continuous feed are available. In the case of heterologous gene expression most induction systems can be implemented e.g. temperature shift, pH and chemical induction (eg IPTG or methanol induction in the case of Pichia).

Cells can be supplied quick frozen or lysed using our Constant Systems cell disrupter. For concentrating supernatants we have a Sartorius crossflow filtration system and a Quixstand hollow fibre unit, with MW cut-offs from 5 to 100 kD.

In addition the lab maintains a portfolio of around 1200 bottles of serum both for general use and for specific research projects. We are happy to obtain samples for batch testing and then arrange the purchase, storage and delivery of your reserve.

For further information regarding the services we can offer, please email lsl@nimr.mrc.ac.uk

Bioresources

 

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