Effect of shear on the death of two strains of mammalian tissue cells

Abstract

Abstract This study reports some findings on the death of mammalian cells occurring from fluid dynamic effects when they are pumped through capillaries. The cell strains used were human HeLa S3 and mouse L929, grown in monolayer culture. Cells were harvested and suspensions were pumped through various lengths and diameters of stainless steel capillary tubing. Viability of the cells was assayed by the dye exclusion test. Cell deaths occurred and could be correlated with either average wall shear or power dissipation within the capillary tube. L929 cells were found to be more sensitive than HeLa S3 cells at all shear rates tested.