A comparison of cell-culture plasticwares for effective human cytokine-induced killer cell culture

Panwadee Pluangnooch, Chaiphichit Phayangkhe, Kitipong Soontrapa

Affiliation:
Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand

Abstract

Background: Cytokine-induced killer (CIK) cells are ex-vivo expanded T cells which present a phenotype of both T and Natural Killer cell properties.
Objective: To compare the proliferation and functional properties of human CIK cells cultured in three cell culture plasticwares.
Methods: The number and viability of CIK cells were monitored. The expression of surface markers (CD3 and CD56), TH1 cytokines (IFN-γ and TNF-α), and cytolytic granules (granzyme B and perforin) were determined by flow cytometry.
Results: The number of CIK cells cultured in a static bag was highest compared to those in a petri dish and gas-permeable flask. However, CIK cells cultured in all plasticwares similarity expressed surface marker, TH1 cytokines, and cytolytic granules.
Conclusion: Considering safety, efficacy, and cost, a static bag is the best plasticware for culturing CIK cells.
Key words: cytokine-induced killer cells, cell culture plasticware, static bag, gas-permeable flask, immunotherapy