Description
StemBeads® BDNF and StemBeads® GDNF are patented growth factor supplements that offer a novel way to culture cells with native Brain Derived Neurotrophic Factor or Glial Derived Neurotrophic Factor more efficiently, with greater control and fewer medium changes. BDNF and GDNF are key for supporting neural progenitor cells (NPCs) and neuronal differentiation. StemBeads® are microbeads composed of an FDA approved, biodegradable PLGA polymer that is loaded with native, non-mutant recombinant human BDNF or GDNF and release the encapsulated protein at a constant rate. Under the microscope, StemBeads® will appear as small dark spheres that do not harm the cells, and with time, will break down while releasing the encapsulated protein. Controlled delivery and stable levels overcome the short half-life (Figures below) of BDNF and GDNF and improve cell cultures while saving researchers valuable time and resources.
StemBeads® BDNF and StemBeads® GDNF have been tested in multiple neuronal base media, including neural progenitor expansion medium (NPEM), with enhanced cellular profiles. In these cases, StemBeads® BDNF were used with and without StemBeads® GDNF.
StemBeads BDNF Product Information Sheet
StemBeads GDNF Product Information Sheet
Frequently Asked Questions
SDS – StemBeads® BDNF
SDS – StemBeads® GDNF
Sustained Release Protein Cell Culture
StemBeads are a revolutionary controlled-release growth factor technology. The StemBeads product is currently used for improved cell culture in more than 100 scientific laboratories globally. StemBeads technology encapsulates a growth factor in a PLGA hydrogel that stabilizes the protein and releases it steadily over several days. With growth factor levels stabilized, spontaneous differentiation is reduced, pluripotency is increased, and feeding schedules are reduced to only 2-3 times per week.
StemBeads are added to your medium to achieve a desired growth factor release, sustained over several days. Following, the beads are washed from the culture, the medium is replaced, and the process repeated as required.
