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

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. CONCLUSIONS: Considering safety, efficacy, and cost, a static bag is the best plasticware for culturing CIK cells.