Production of cells and viruses in a new multiple-tube tissue culture propagator.

A novel method for large-scale culture of anchorage-dependent cells is described. Culture vessels were constructed by using roller bottles and Pyrex tubing. Parallel glass tubes, equally spaced by silicone rings and inserted into the roller bottles, provided an increased culture area. The roller bottles were fitted with a second opening for medium recirculation. Culture vessels of 1,000-, 4,000-, 8,000- and 16,000-cm2 growth area were constructed to propagate Vero, BS-C-1, primary chicken embryo, and IMH-P cells. These cultured cells were used to efficiently produce several viruses: rubella virus, measles virus, poliovirus, cytomegalovirus, and herpesvirus of turkey.