C8161 is a cell line derived from an aggressive form of subcutaneous melanoma. These cells have the unique ability to form tissue with a vascular-like network both in vivo and in vitro. This process has been termed vasculogenic mimicry. The main goal in our lab is to take advantage of this property to create a novel ultrahigh density bioreactor system. Higher cell densities will permit for a reduction in bioreactor volume, improved control, and better utilization of nutrients.

As a first step in the development of this system, these cells have been characterized in terms of their cell growth kinetics, oxygen uptake rates, nutrient uptake rates, and waste formation in both monolayer cultures and three-dimensional tissue cultures. Also, the ability of the cells to form their vascular-like network with and without the use of collagen as a scaffold will be demonstrated. This information will ultimately be used to design a high density bioreactor for protein synthesis.