Living tissue culture cells are captured growing on a glass fiber with the aid of reflected light microscopy. This unusual image reveals a single cell in the center of the image that appears to display fibroblast morphology.

Cells on Glass Fiber Specimen: Cells Growing on Glass Fiber Technique: Reflected Light Microscopy

It is interesting to note that recent research conducted by the by the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) found three different types of glass fibers to be poisonous to cells. Exposure to these fibers resulted in damaged DNA, which was indicated by continued cell division after initial contact (although there may have been additional circumstances leading to this condition).

Cells are often cultured in hollow glass fibers to enable histologists to grow cells in a more in vivo-like environment. The glass fiber is first coated with a hydrophilic polymer that enhances cell adhesion, then the cells are plated in media and allowed to attach. Carbon dioxide, oxygen, and fresh media can be pumped through the fibers to provide the cells with a continuous supply of fresh nutrients and carry the metabolic waste products away. This system is ideal for introduction of therapeutic drugs or other biochemicals in a controlled and sustained manner.