What factors might contribute to ALL cultures failing in a CO2 incubator?

In a CO2 incubator, maintaining the right environment is crucial for the growth and sustenance of cell cultures. The successful growth of all cultures depends on several interdependent factors, including temperature, CO2 levels, and humidity.

Temperature is essential because different cell types require specific growth temperatures, typically around 37°C for mammalian cells. A deviation from the optimal temperature can adversely affect cellular metabolism, protein folding, and overall culture viability.

CO2 levels play a significant role in maintaining the appropriate pH of the culture medium through the bicarbonate buffering system. Insufficient CO2 can lead to an increase in pH (making the medium too alkaline), while too much CO2 can lower the pH (making the medium too acidic). Both scenarios can negatively affect cell growth and function.

Humidity is critical as well, especially in preventing evaporation of the culture medium, which can lead to nutrient concentration changes and osmolality issues. If humidity levels are too low, the culture medium can dry out, significantly impacting cell health.

Thus, the combination of temperature, CO2 levels, and humidity all contribute to the overall success of cell cultures in a CO2 incubator. If any of these factors fall outside the required ranges, it can lead to the