What is the Difference Between Callus Culture and Suspension Culture?

🆚 Go to Comparative Table 🆚

The main difference between callus culture and suspension culture lies in the structure and growth medium of the cells. Here are the key differences:

Callus Culture:

  • Callus culture is an undifferentiated, unorganized mass of dividing cells grown on an agar medium.
  • It is used in plant tissue culture to regenerate plants and amplify limiting plant material.
  • Cells in callus culture are grown on a solid nutrient medium.

Suspension Culture:

  • Suspension culture is a liquid culture in which single cells or small aggregates of cells multiply while suspended in an agitated liquid medium.
  • It is used for large-scale production of cells and biomolecules.
  • Cells in suspension culture are grown in a liquid medium.

Both culturing techniques are types of cell cultures grown in laboratories for various purposes, such as studying cell growth, development, and biological processes. They are sub-culturing techniques and are in vitro, meaning they are performed outside of a living organism. Both cultures require a good nutrient supply and continuous monitoring of the process until growth is completed.

Comparative Table: Callus Culture vs Suspension Culture

Based on the information provided, the differences between callus culture and suspension culture are as follows:

Feature Callus Culture Suspension Culture
Cell Form Undifferentiated, unorganized mass of dividing cells Single cells and small groups of cells suspended in a liquid medium
Medium Solid nutrient medium (agar) Liquid nutrient medium
Cell Morphology Irregular shape Single or groups of cells
Aeration No continuous agitation required Continuous agitation required to mix the content and aerate
Application in Plant Tissue Culture Regeneration of plants and amplification of limiting plant material Not commonly used in plant tissue culture

Callus culture is an undifferentiated, unorganized mass of dividing cells grown on an agar medium, while suspension culture is a liquid culture consisting of single cells and small groups of cells suspended in a liquid medium. Growth conditions and nutrient levels should be maintained and continuously monitored until the growth is completed for both cultures.