DEP
Our tasks include:
- advice and support for planning and undertaking cell biological experiments
- introduction to foundations of cell culture technics and the practical help handling eukaryotic cell systems
- supply of human and other mammal cell lines
- experimental preparation for academic work on cells
- assessment of biocompatibility of various biomaterials
Also, our laboratory offers training for individuals interested in learning cell culture techniques, providing hands-on experience and expert guidance in this essential area of biomedical research. Our facility supports the maintenance and propagation of eukaryotic cells and the real-time fluorescent microscope on cell proliferation imaging is also available.
The core facility comprises:
- CO₂ incubators with real-time monitoring of temperature, pH, and humidity
- Automated cell counters
- Inverted phase-contrast and fluorescence microscopes
- Centrifuges, refrigerated systems, and controlled-rate freezers for cryopreservation
- Water purification systems compliant with ASTM Type I standards
- 3D cell culture platforms for tissue engineering applications
- cell culture collection contains over 75 different cell lines, including human osteoprogenitor cell units, derived from bone morrow (original and/or expanded in the laboratory)
Laboratory was designed according to clean rooms technology with aseptic environment and EU ISO 14644.1 regulations. The laboratory has been equipped with various equipment needed for research and teaching purposes.
The Cell Culture Core Facility is a state-of-the-art facility specifically designed to perform advanced cellular research and biomedical applications under the highest international standards of biosafety, quality control, and aseptic processing. The laboratory operates as a closed-circuit system, ensuring controlled access, unidirectional flow, and strict isolation of clean areas to prevent cross-contamination and maintain optimal environmental control. All research activities within the laboratory are conducted in full compliance with Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)-like standards, and ISO 14644 requirements for cleanroom classification.
Infrastructure and Environmental Control
The laboratory is structured into multiple pressure-controlled zones designed to maintain cleanroom hierarchies, with positive pressure differentials in sterile work areas to prevent the ingress of airborne contaminants. Each room is equipped with HEPA (High-Efficiency Particulate Air) filtration systems, continuous air quality monitoring, and controlled temperature and humidity to create a stable environment for cell culture activities. The cleanroom design enables continuous aseptic conditions through a closed-loop air handling system and restricted personnel access using electronic authentication and gowning procedures.
Aseptic Conditions and Contamination Control
Stringent aseptic techniques are applied throughout the laboratory. Work is carried out exclusively in Class II biosafety cabinets. Personnel follow strict gowning procedures, and entry is regulated through anterooms with controlled transitions between different cleanliness levels. Surfaces are routinely decontaminated using validated disinfectants, while all materials entering the clean area pass through airlocks or pass-boxes equipped with UV sterilization. Microbiological monitoring is conducted regularly to ensure the sterility of the environment, equipment, and culture media.
Operational Standards and Quality Assurance
The laboratory follows a comprehensive Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) system regulating every aspect of activity, from cell line authentication and mycoplasma testing to culture medium preparation, cryostorage, and biohazard disposal. Regular sterility checks, environmental monitoring, and validation processes are implemented to maintain continuous quality control.
Biosafety and Regulatory Compliance
The facility is authorized to work with human and animal cell lines under Biosafety Level 2 (BSL-2) conditions as required for specific research applications. Waste management procedures follow EU Directives and national biosafety regulations, ensuring safe handling, decontamination, and disposal of biological materials.