Use of cultured human cells for biochemical analysis

The use of cultured human cells for biochemical analysis is increasing. This reflects the many advantages of such cells over tissue samples: independence of the measurements from the biological milieu of the donor, better control of experimental variables and the possibility of immortalizing the patient via his cells. Concomitant with these advantages, however, are certain new experimental variables which, if not properly controlled, can yield spurious results. This paper describes the types of cultured human cells that are generally available and the basic steps involved in their culture, as well as a discussion of the sources of variability in biochemical measurements which can be attributed to cell culture.