Cultural aspects: culture/materials

Beside numerous applications for biological samples [Belu et al. 2003, Brunelle et al. 2005], studies of organic materials from cultural heritage artefacts have been developing since the beginning of the twenty-first century. In this review we show, through some selected examples, the different aspects and possibilities of ToF-SIMS analyses. 

As ToF-SIMS is a surface analytical technique, it is well suited to the study of surface interaction between a material and its environment or between a material and products applied to it. The surface modifications can then be studied, making it possible to establish links with degradation processes. Published papers on the study of natural fibres related to cultural heritage typically illustrate this aspect of ToF-SIMS analysis. 

Probably the most exciting aspect of molecular farming from the industrial perspective is the low initial capital investment compared with mammalian cell culture production. The reduced capital input reflects the lower costs of laboratory equipment and materials for plant molecular biology. For example, the costs involved in establishing small, non-sterile greenhouse facilities are dwarfed by those required for a sealed pilot fermentation plant. 

Tissue slices and whole organ culture maintain many spatial aspects of the intact tissue and, like whole cells, maintain the linkage between Phase I and Phase II enzymes (Sipes et al., 1987). Precision-cut tissue slices are more easily and reproducibly prepared than primary hepatocytes. However, viability limitations often restrict studies to a few hours duration. Histological examination of the material after exposure to a xenobiotic is possible with tissue slices. 

This chapter deals with three aspects of the cellulolytic enzyme system of Thermoactinomyces sp. the location of the CM-cellulase, Avicelase, and / -glucosidase (cellobiase) activities in the culture, the multiplicity of the extracellular enzyme system, and the stability of the different activities as a function of pH, temperature, and time. The results are discussed with reference to saccharification of cellulosic materials. 

Although a number of books are available giving a great deal of information about various aspects of cell culture this book is designed rather for the biochemist or molecular biologist, whose interest in cell culture extends only as far as this technique provides him with material with which he may perform biochemical experiments. 

Process developers should check existing patents and patent applications in order to avoid patent infringement with any use or process patent. On the other hand, there may be possibilities to patent the particular process newly developed or critical elements of it. Economic aspects such as yields from cell culture or fermentation, product recovery after purification and cost of materials and equipment also need constant attention. Production cost forecasts should be calculated and updated regularly. 

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