Scientists working on cancer research are now able to use a new non-adherent cell culture surface to support the formation of consistent cancer spheroids in vitro, simulating the three-dimensional (3D) structures of tumor growth and providing a better model system for studying tumor cell progression and the efficacy of anticancer agents than two-dimensional (2D) systems and other surfaces.

The new Thermo Scientific Nunclon Sphera is a polymer-coated surface with very low-binding characteristics, which is designed to allow many different cell types to grow in suspension consistently with virtually no cell attachment. An alternative to commonly used non-treated surfaces, the Nunclon Sphera non-adherent surface is especially important for researchers seeking to cultivate cancer and stem cell spheroids, since the product is able to grow uniform and dependable spheres. The Nunclon Sphera surface also offers exceptional quality for embryoid body formation of pluripotent stem cells, providing a reliable tool to investigate cell fate potential and lineage specificity of stem cells.

“When scientists reach the phase of taking the pluripotent stem cells on to differentiation, a consistent reproducible surface is critical to prevent the loss of valuable cells to surface attachment,” said Roberta Morris, business director, cell culture, Thermo Fisher Scientific. “Our new surface is an important milestone in the differentiation process of stem cells by providing a non-binding surface that is designed to allow researchers to grow more spheroids in suspension, both reliably and simply.”

Available in round and flat-bottom 96-well plates, single or multi-well dish and flask formats, the Thermo Scientific Nunclon Sphera surface is designed to easily integrate into a researcher’s existing cell culture research workflow and facilitate an array of cancer and stem cell research from routine passage of cells to high throughput imaging analysis. 

About Thermo Fisher Scientific

Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc. is the world leader in serving science, with revenues of $17 billion and 50,000 employees in 50 countries. Our mission is to enable our customers to make the world healthier, cleaner and safer. We help our customers accelerate life sciences research, solve complex analytical challenges, improve patient diagnostics and increase laboratory productivity. Our four premier brands – Thermo Scientific, Life Technologies, Fisher Scientific and Unity Lab Services – offer an unmatched combination of innovative technologies, purchasing convenience and comprehensive support.

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