Studies on hydra cells in vitro

Abstract

Methods for the disaggregation of hydra and maintenance of hydra cells are described. The cells synthesize DNA, RNA and Protein linearly for about 16 to 24 hours. DNA synthesized by cells in vitro has the same buoyant density in CsCl as DNA synthesized in the animal. The size distribution and processing of RNA synthesized in cultured cells is similar to that in the whole animal. Conversion of large RNA molecules to 28s and 18s rRNA species occurs in cultured cells. Interstitial cells committed development of the nematocyst in vitro.

Development

“…In those cases where some success was reported, the methods have not been presented in rigorous detail and have not been repeated by other workers. A recent report by Trenkner et al (1973; see also Bode, 1974a) of some success at maintaining hydra cells in vitro is noteworthy because the media, experiments, and assays carried out were highly systematic and thoroughly defined. These workers devised disso ciation procedures and media which produce and maintain cells viable for several days.…”