Sample interview questions: Have you ever worked on a project involving plastic biocompatibility testing? If so, what methods did you use?
Sample answer:
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In Vitro Cytotoxicity Testing:
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Conducted cell viability assays using various cell lines, such as fibroblasts, epithelial cells, and macrophages, to evaluate the cytotoxic effects of plastic materials.
- Measured cell viability using colorimetric or fluorometric assays, such as MTT, XTT, or LDH assays, to quantify cell death or proliferation.
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Determined the half-maximal inhibitory concentration (IC50) values of plastic extracts or leachates to assess the concentration at which they cause 50% cell death.
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Genotoxicity Testing:
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Performed genotoxicity assays, such as the Ames test or comet assay, to evaluate the potential of plastic materials to induce genetic mutations or DNA damage.
- Utilized bacterial strains or mammalian cells as model systems to detect genotoxic effects.
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Analyzed data on mutation frequency, DNA strand breaks, or chromosomal aberrations to assess the genotoxic potential of plastic materials.
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In Vivo Biocompatibility Testing:
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Conducted animal studies, such as subcutaneous implantation or intraperitoneal injection, to evaluate the long-term biocompatibility of plastic materials.
- Observed animals for signs of adverse effects, such as inflammation, tissue damage, or tumor formation, at various time points.
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Performed histological examinations of tissues surrounding the implanted plastic materials to assess tissue responses and biocompatibility.
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