syöttösoluja

Syöttösoluja, often translated as "input cells" or "feeder cells" in English, refers to cells that provide essential nutrients or support for the growth and survival of other cells, particularly in laboratory settings or in certain biological contexts. These cells are not directly the cells of interest but play a crucial role in their cultivation or function.

In cell culture, syöttösoluja are commonly used to support the growth of stem cells, such as embryonic stem cells or induced pluripotent stem cells. These feeder cells, typically fibroblasts, secrete growth factors and other essential molecules that create a favorable microenvironment for the delicate stem cells. Without syöttösoluja, stem cells may differentiate prematurely or fail to proliferate. The syöttösoluja themselves are usually inactivated, for example, by irradiation or mitomycin C treatment, to prevent their uncontrolled proliferation and to ensure they only serve a supportive role.

Beyond stem cell culture, the concept of syöttösoluja can extend to other biological systems where one cell type provides sustenance or regulatory signals to another. This might include interactions within tissues or in specific experimental setups designed to mimic such relationships. The primary function of syöttösoluja is to ensure the viability and maintain the desired state of the target cells through direct provision of necessary factors or by modifying the surrounding environment.