Electrofusion of large volumes of cells in culture: Part I. Anchorage-dependent strains

Abstract

Mammalian cells were grown on microcarriers up to confluence. After substituting the culture medium for an isotonic pulsing medium of low ionic content, the cells on the microcarriers were electropulsated in a flow system and the incubated at 37°C. A large number of viable polykaryons were then routinely present on the microcarriers. Optimum conditions for the obtention of fused cells are described (field intensity, pulse duration, flow rate). These results are discussed in reference to our previous studies on plated cells. All results are in agreement with the theory linking electrofusion to the external field-induced membrane potential change.