Comparison of substance supply in static and perfusion cultures based on mass transport phenomena

Mass transport phenomena in cell culture can be formulated by using classical reaction-diffusion equations; however, in practice, it is difficult to solve these equations analytically. Here, we used computer simulation to solve these equations, and compared the time-dependent concentration profile of substances in conventional static culture with that in perfusion culture. The simulated glucose consumption in static culture agreed with that of actual culture conditions used in a general cell culture experiment. The simulation of perfusion culture revealed that the geometry of the chamber and its operating parameters are critical to obtaining a sufficient supply of substances. We also found that the previously reported perfusion chambers are well designed and operate under adequate conditions. Our kinetic model of time-dependent concentration profiles for general substances based on mass transport phenomena could, therefore, be used for the optimal design of a microfluidic perfusion culture chip.

► Mathematical modeling was used to assess substance supply in cell cultures.
► Simulation of static culture conditions resembles actual culture conditions.
► Simulation was used to evaluate previously reported perfusion chambers.
► The mathematical model could be use to design a microfluidic cell culture chip.