Abstract: An apparatus for culturing biological material such as cells and methods of using the apparatus are disclosed. The apparatus may comprise a rough or uneven growth surface. The growth surface may be added to or formed as an integral part of the apparatus. Further the rough or uneven growth surface may be pitted or cratered to a depth of 1 mm or less in some cases.

Abstract: Resilient openly porous support structures containing silicon are prepared for cell immobilization. A preferred structure is made of porous silicone rubber foam, and cells are adsorbed to the surfaces of pores. The structure may be in the form of a block, sheet, pad, chip, strand, tube or granule. The silicone rubber foam is formed by aerating liquid silicone rubber, and desired porosity and density are provided by controlling aeration of the liquid silicone rubber. The porosity and/or density may also be controlled by incorporating during manufacture of the structure an inert additive such as a metal powder that produces a dense structure. A density may be provided to prevent the structure from floating in a reaction mixture in which the structure is used. Additives may also be used to control surface properties of the structure. The structure is preferably sterilized before use and may be re-used. The structure is re-used without removing cells or is cleaned to remove cells and then re-sterilized.