The three-day training session on Animal Cell Culture Techniques for AIBS students – Genelabs Medical (Pvt) Ltd was successfully organized and held in three batches from 22nd September to 2nd October 2025 (7 days), by the Institute of Biochemistry, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology. A total of 47 students participated in this intensive hands-on training programme.

The training session was conducted under the guidance of Prof. Sameera R. Samarakoon and facilitated by Dr. Umapriyatharshini Rajagopalan, Mr. Nirmal Perera, Ms. Tasneem Muhinudeen, and Ms. Shalini Wijerathne, along with supportive staff including two technical officers.

This interactive training provided a valuable platform for participants to enhance their understanding of essential principles and practical aspects of animal cell culture. The sessions covered safety precautions to maintain aseptic conditions in a cell culture laboratory, an introduction to cell culture laboratories, sterilization techniques, cell culture media preparation, visualization of cells using light microscopy, cell counting, cell viability determination, culturing and maintenance of adherent cells, cryopreservation and thawing of preserved human cell lines, detection of apoptosis using fluorescence microscopy, analysis of induced cytotoxicity, cell-based assays (SRB assay) to screen anti-cancer drugs or substances, and data analysis and interpretation of results.

Overall, the training session offered an excellent opportunity for students to develop both theoretical insights and practical skills in the field of animal cell culture, equipping them with fundamental knowledge applicable to biomedical research.