Science Buddies: "Ask an Expert"

I am doing a project where I would like to test antioxidants on Melanoma cancer cells. I have never done anything like this before and I need a lot of help. How to inject the antioxidants in the cancer cells? Is it similar to inoculation with bacteria? What form do I need the antioxidants in(powder, liquid, etc.)? Do I use Petri dishes? I honestly need a step by step, I am familiar with inoculation and bacteria projects but nothing with cancer cells or injecting things into cells.

Hi there,

Great questions, I think you are on the right track. Here is the reading that may help to answer your questions about the experiment designs:
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3984781/

One thing to keep in mind, though, is that cancer cells are difficult to preserve and purchase by students. Small labs do not always have the right fridge to preserve cancer cells. You may need to ask your labs at school to help you with buying/preserving the materials for the experiment.

Don't hesitate to ask if you are still stuck on the experiment.

Elise

I appreciate trying to use melanoma cells in your project. First, make sure your science fair allows such cells. If such cells are allowed, it might be best to do the project at a lab that currently uses these cells. Such labs would probably be found at a local university, probably best at a medical school.

Good luck with your project.
DrAJ