Use of ascorbic acid in the 51Cr labelling of mouse fibrosarcoma cells

We have studied and discussed the significance of the use of ascorbic acid in 51Cr labelling of cells. The following two advantages seem credible if cells (mouse fibrosarcoma) in culture are incubated for about 2 h in a medium containing Na2 51CrO4 and then ascorbic acid is added to the medium and incubation continued for ten more minutes: (a) the natural intracellular conversion of Cr6+ to Cr3+ appears to be aided, (b) the incorporation of chromium by cells is higher.