Cell Culture and Microbiology Unit
The Cell Culture and Microbiology Unit of IMDEA Nanoscience provides technical and scientific support, as well as the resources and necessary equipment for the development of research in cell biology and microbiology.
The Unit makes these services available to the Institute’s research groups, enabling experimental work in projects ranging from the design and validation of nanosystems for targeted drug delivery, to toxicity and biocompatibility studies, evaluation of nanomaterial interactions with biological systems, and the development of cellular models for neurodegenerative diseases and cancer, among others.
The Unit manages and supervises a variety of specialised facilities and infrastructures, including:
- Cell Culture laboratory.
- Pathogenic Bacteria laboratory.
- Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) laboratory.
- Cold Rooms (4 °C and –20 °C), cryogenic tanks and –80 °C freezers.
- Autoclave and Sterilisation Room.
- Instrumentation and Equipment Rooms.
The Unit is responsible for the management of the laboratories, maintenance of infrastructures, and the implementation of quality control protocols—including mycoplasma detection—as well as the collection of contaminated materials and the deactivation of biological waste. It also provides specialised scientific-technical support in cell culture and microbiology, along with training and advice for users.
Finally, the Unit ensures compliance with the biosecurity and bioethics regulations, guaranteeing that all activities are conducted in accordance with current legislation and good scientific practices.