The goal of this research project will be to determine the effects of substrate surface chemistry on adhesion of cultured plant cells. Production of plant secondary metabolites will also be assessed as a function of substrate surface chemistry. Novel gas plasma techniques will be used to effect systematic chemical modifications to the surface of polystyrene on which the plant cells will be grown. Information obtained through this research effort will ultimately be directed towards the development of improved bioreactors for production of useful compounds by immobilized plant cells.Applications:Demand for compounds produced by plants, particularly those with clinical applications, is very high. The whole plant is often a poor source, because of harvesting problems, economics, or low supply. Cultured plant cells are a necessary alternative source for such products. Immobilized plant cell cultures are preferred over other processes. This proposed research will lead to a better understanding of the mechanisms of plant cell adhesion. We will contribute to the general goal of optimizing a bioreactor for immobilized plant cells.
