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Updated: Jun 19, 2026

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Published on: September 22, 2020
ON THE SURVIVAL AND TRANSPLANTABILITY OF ADULT MAMMALIAN TISSUE IN SIMPLE PLASMA
1Bacteriological Laboratory of the London Hospital, London.
The Journal of Experimental Medicine
|October 30, 2009
Summary
Adult mammalian tissue growth can be extended by transferring it to fresh nutrient medium. While some tissue samples survived up to 40 days, most ceased growing after only a few generations.
Area of Science:
- Cell biology
- Tissue engineering
Background:
- Understanding the factors influencing adult mammalian tissue longevity in vitro is crucial for regenerative medicine and research.
- Previous studies have explored nutrient media and environmental conditions for tissue maintenance.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential for prolonged growth of adult mammalian tissue through serial transfers to fresh culture medium.
- To determine the maximum duration and number of generations achievable for sustained tissue viability.
Main Methods:
- Adult mammalian tissue samples were cultured and serially transferred to fresh nutrient media.
- Growth, viability, and generational capacity were monitored over time.
Main Results:
- Transference to fresh medium can prolong adult mammalian tissue growth.
- In some instances, growth continued for up to 10-11 generations (approx. 40 days).
- Most tissues exhibited limited growth, ceasing after 3-4 generations, with diminishing growth in subsequent transfers.
Conclusions:
- Prolonged in vitro growth of adult mammalian tissue is achievable but variable.
- The study highlights the potential and limitations of serial transfer methods for extending tissue viability in culture.

