Immobilized plant cells: a literature survey.

Abstract The use of immobilized plant cells, for both research purposes and secondary metabolite production, is a relatively new area in biotechnology. A survey is given of published data concerning immobilized plant cells. Attention has been paid to historical perspectives, product formation, immobilization techniques, and bioreactor design. The consequences of the immobilization of plant cells are discussed with respect to mechanical properties of the particles, cell growth, and product formation. Finally, some opinions about the future prospects of the use of immobilized plant cells are discussed.