Measurement of bone cell metabolism in vitro using mass spectrometry.

The metabolism of bone cells can be monitored directly and continuously 'in vitro' by a new technique, based on mass spectrometry. The consumption of oxygen and production of carbon dioxide were measured in 6 different cultures of human bone cells. The method was feasible for measurement of bone cell metabolism and was also tested in suspensions of hepatocytes. The data obtained with these cells were comparable to results obtained with traditional techniques, and a relation to cellular concentration was demonstrated.