Cell Culture Core
The B.R.A.I.N.S. Research Laboratory Cell Culture Center, part of McGovern Medical School at UTHealth Houston, specializes in advanced in vitro modeling and offers 2D cell culture and 3D organoid systems to drive innovative research in neuroscience, neurovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, and aging. We provide a variety of services and technical support to enhance the ability of UTHealth researchers to conduct high-quality collaborative research that relies on diverse cell culture systems and cell biology methods to address biomedical questions at the cellular and molecular level, with a particular focus on human systems. Equipped with cutting-edge technology and supported by a team of experts, the facility offers a robust platform for studying disease mechanisms and therapeutic targets. Committed to advancing scientific discovery, the Cell Culture Center serves as a vital resource supporting innovative research across a broad range of biomedical disciplines.
Our Capabilities:
- 2D and 3D in vitro Models: We offer comprehensive services for developing and maintaining both 2D cell cultures and advanced 3D organoid models, providing physiologically relevant platforms for studying brain development, disease mechanisms, and therapeutic interventions. These in vitro models enable us to investigate immune responses in neurodegenerative and vascular diseases, as well as other conditions affecting brain recovery. By leveraging these cutting-edge systems, we aim to uncover key pathways involved in disease progression and develop targeted strategies to mitigate age-related inflammation and promote neural repair.
- Cutting-edge technology: Our facilities are equipped with state-of-the-art biosafety cabinets, high-resolution fluorescence microscopes, incubators and advanced cell culture systems, ensuring the highest standards of quality in research. We also use live cell recording technology, allowing real-time monitoring of cellular dynamics, disease progression and therapeutic responses in both 2D cell cultures and 3D organoid models.
- Expert Team
Our team consists of highly trained scientists and technicians with experience in cell culture, organoid models, and stem cell research. We provide expert guidance and technical support tailored to your research needs. - Collection of diverse cell lines
Our facilities provide access to a comprehensive repository of human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs), as well as human and mouse cell lines relevant to the neurovascular and neuroimmune system (neuroblastoma, microglia cell lines, astrocytes, endothelial cell lines, cardiomyocytes, among others). These diverse cellular models enable researchers to study disease mechanisms, immune interactions, and therapeutic responses with precision, ensuring that the right tools are available to perform cutting-edge experiments in neuroscience and related fields.
- Advanced, automated live-cell imaging platform (Incucyte): Monitoring and analysis of cellular behavior in real-time, providing continuous, quantitative data on a variety of cell-based assays. It enables researchers to track dynamic processes such as cell proliferation, migration, invasion, apoptosis, and differentiation, all within the same culture environment without disrupting the cells. The system typically uses high-resolution, phase contrast, or fluorescence microscopy to capture images of cells over time, which are then analyzed using specialized software for detailed insights into cellular dynamics.
- Quality & Reliability
We adhere to rigorous quality control measures, including mycoplasma testing, viability assessments, and reproducibility standards, ensuring consistent and reliable results for your research. - Collaborative Research Environment
As part of the R.A.I.S Lab at UTHealth Houston, we foster a collaborative research culture, supporting multidisciplinary studies and offering training opportunities for students and researchers.
Services:
- Primary Cell Culture & Maintenance
- Repository and cryogenic preservation of cells
- 3D Culture & Organoid Models
- Co-Culture & Specialized Assays
- Mycoplasma Testing & Quality Control
- Training & Consultation
- Cell reprogramming
- Advanced, automated live-cell imaging platform
Equipment & Technology:
- Biosafety cabinets BCL-2,
- Cell culture CO2 incubators,
- Centrifuge
- Liquid nitrogen tank for long term cell storage
- Contrast microscopes
- Fluorescence microscope
- OGD chamber system
- Incucyte
- Facilities for 3D culture
Location and Hours
McGovern Medical School Building (MSB) 3.600
Department of Neurology
6431 Fannin St, MSB 3.600, Houston, TX 77030
Monday – Friday 9:00 AM- 5 PM
Our Team
Andrea Becerra-Calixto, PhD – Research Scientist
Cell Culture Core Facility Coordinator, BRAINS Laboratory
Education & Training
BS Microbiology
MS Biomedical Basic Science
PhD Biomedical Science: Neuroscience
Areas of Interest
Research interests: Cellular and molecular neurobiology and development of cell culture system models based on stem cell technologies
Clinical interests: Neurodegenerative diseases, aging, and neurovascular diseases
Research & Experience
My research has focused on the development of brain and mid-brain organoids to understand the deconstruction of proteins involved in neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. Likewise, I have developed neuroprotection models through gene and cell therapy in cerebral ischemia, searching for molecular targets related to immunoregulation in neural cells. I have experience in 2D and 3D cell culture systems, microscopy, and biochemical and immunoassay techniques.
Contact
[email protected]
(713) 500-5315