3D Cell Culture Models: Challenges for Cell-Based Assays

In 3D cell culture models, cells are grown under conditions that allow the formation of multicellular spheroids or microtissues. Instead of growing in a monolayer on a plate surface, cells in 3D culture grow within a support matrix that allows them to interact with each other, forming cell:cell connections and creating an environment that mimics […]

Overcoming Challenges to Detect Apoptosis in 3D Cell Structures

This blog is written by guest author, Maggie Bach, Sr. Product Manager, Promega Corporation. Researchers are increasingly relying on cells grown in three-dimensional (3D) structures to help answer their research questions. Monolayer, or 2D cell culture, was the go-to cell culture method for the past century. Now, the need to better represent in vivo conditions […]

Reliable DNA Purification from 3D Cell Cultures

Traditionally, scientists have relied on flat, two-dimensional cell cultures grown on substrates such as tissue culture polystyrene (TCPS) to study cellular physiology. These models are simple and cost-effective to culture and process. Within the last decade, however, three-dimensional (3D) cell cultures have become increasingly popular because they are more physiologically relevant and better represent in […]

High-Throughput Drug Screening Using 3D Cell Cultures

For a long time, the drug industry has relied on flat 2D cell cultures grown on a plate to screen for potential drugs. However, 2D models do not accurately reflect the native environment of cells in vivo. 3D cell cultures, on the other hand, better represent the numerous cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions and hypoxic conditions […]

Creating ART from 3D Printed Ovaries

It is remarkable to me how quickly in vitro fertilization has gone from an experimental, controversial and prohibitively expensive procedure to becoming a mainstream option for those struggling with fertility issues. What was unheard of in my parents’ generation is nothing extraordinary among my friends who are having children. My personal observations are supported by […]

Improving Cancer Drug Screening with 3D Cell Culture

Tissue culture using primary or cultured cell lines has long been a mainstay of testing compounds for inhibiting cell growth or promoting apoptosis during screening for cancer drugs. However, the standard culture conditions result in monolayers of cells, dividing and growing across the bottom of a well, plate or flask in a single layer. The […]

From Soot, Turpentine and Walnut Oil to Bio-Inks with Living Cells: Printing Reinvents Itself in 3D and Comes Alive

Printing has been an integral part of society since the first movable type printing press was invented by Johannes Gutenberg in the 15th century. And yet, many recent headlines have heralded its impending death.  As everything from books to newspapers transitioned to digital media, the traditional printing techniques seemed destined for the history books and […]

Streamlining Plant Pathogen Detection: Valto Biocontrol’s Integration of Promega High-Throughput Nucleic Acid Extraction Platform

This review summarizes Valto Biocontrol’s move toward a high-throughput (HT) nucleic acid extraction solution utilizing Promega Maxwell® HT simplyRNA Kit, Custom. This project was initiated by Dr. Menno Westerdijk, Head of Laboratories at Valto Biocontrol, who established a molecular laboratory onsite. The Promega Field Support Scientist team assisted Dr. Westerdijk to develop an automated nucleic […]

The Largest Known Genome: Unveiling Nature’s Genetic Giant 

In genetics, sizes often come with surprises. One tiny fern, Tmesipteris oblanceolata, also known as the Fork Fern, proved this phrase true, taking the scientific community by storm when it broke the record for the largest known genome. Researchers reported this discovery on May 31, 2024, stating that the plant, which is small enough to […]

Revolutionizing Food Security: How Biotechnology Contributes to Sustainability and Safety

Projections from the United Nations suggest that the global population reached 8 billion in 2022. By 2030, the United Nations expect the population will grow to 8.5 billion (1).  In order to sustain the rapidly expanding global population, innovative approaches in the agriculture sector are required to ensure food security and safety while maintaining sustainable […]