Live cell imaging represents a critical tool for elucidating biological interactions at both the cellular and molecular levels.  Live cell imaging technology allows researchers to observe dynamic, biological signaling events like protein-protein interactions, protein modifications, and intracellular calcium changes.

The control of at least three environmental variables is essential to successful live cell imaging.

1) Temperature: Most mammalian cells require a stable 35-37°C environment to grow optimally.  Low temperatures can slow growth and high temperatures can lead to premature cell death.  Fluctuations in the culture environment can also impair cell growth.

 2) pH: In a bicarbonate buffer system, CO2 dictates the pH of the medium.  To maintain the pH at 7.4 for optimal cell growth, the CO2 level must be maintained at a stable level for the duration of culture.  Fluctuations in pH over time impair long-term cell culture, effectively preventing live cell imaging.

3) Humidity:  If humidity is not maintained during cell culture, evaporation will occur.  As the culture media evaporates, cell metabolites and medium constituents will concentrate leading to impaired cell growth.