It is dissolved in the same nutrient-containing medium in which cells are normally grown. A single layer of cells is grown on a flat surface, then infected with a virus for a short time. The strength of the viral sample used will determine how many cells get infected during this time. The thick methyl cellulose medium is then added on top of the cells in place of normal liquid medium. As the viruses replicate in the infected cells, they are able to spread between cells whose membranes touch each other, but are trapped when they enter the methyl cellulose. Only cells closely neighboring an infected cell will become infected and die. This leaves small regions of dead cells called plaques in a larger background of living uninfected cells. The number of plaques formed is determined by the strength of the original sample. Bacterial and protozoal motility inhibitor
Aqueous methyl cellulose solutions have been used to slow bacterial and protozoal cell motility for closer inspection. Changing the amount of methyl cellulose in solution permits the adjustment of the solutions viscosity. Stem cell differentiation
Methyl cellulose is used in the most common approaches to quantify multiple or single lineage-committed hematopoietic progenitors, called colony-forming cells (CFCs) or colony-forming units (CFUs), in combination with culture supplements that promote their proliferation and differentiation, and allow the clonal progeny of a single progenitor cell to stay together and thus form a colony of more mature cells.
Methyl cellulose (or methylcellulose) is a chemical compound derived from cellulose. It is sold under a variety of trade names and is used as a thickener and emulsifier in various food and cosmetic products, and also as a bulk-forming laxative. Like cellulose, it is not digestible, not toxic, and not an allergen. In 2017, it was the 272nd most commonly prescribed medication in the United States, with more than one million prescriptions. Uses
Methyl cellulose has a wide range of uses. Medical
Constipation
Methyl cellulose is used to treat constipation. Effects generally occur within three days. It is taken by mouth and is recommended with sufficient water. Side effects may include abdominal pain. It is classified as a bulk forming laxative. It works by increasing the amount of stool present which improves intestinal contractions.It is available over the counter. It is sold under the brand name Citrucel among others. Artificial tears and saliva
The lubricating property of methylcellulose is of particular benefit in the treatment of dry eyes. Solutions containing methyl cellulose or similar cellulose derivatives are used as substitute for tears or saliva if the natural production of these fluids is disturbed. Medication manufacturing
Methyl cellulose is used in the manufacture of drug capsules; its edible and nontoxic properties provide a vegetarian alternative to the use of gelatin. Consumer products
Thickener and emulsifier
Methyl cellulose is occasionally added to hair shampoos, tooth pastes and liquid soaps, to generate their characteristic thick consistency. This is also done for foods, for example ice cream or croquette.