How long does a cell live outside a living host?

In summary, the lifespan of a cell, whether normal or cancerous, outside of a living host depends on a variety of factors such as the environment it is placed in, the type of cell, and its metabolic rate. Factors like nutrient availability and protective covering also play a role in determining how long a cell can survive outside of a living host.
  • #1
Aoiro
8
0
Hi, how long does a cell, normal and cancerous, live outside a living host?

Thanks, Aoiro
 
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  • #2
This probably depends on a lots... First of all.. define "live"... (Yeah -- right, we get into all kinds of interesting things there...)

Think about what environment you are putting it into... Would either cell "live" if you took it and threw it into an oven? Are you putting it in some nutrient solution at proper temperature? What type of cell is it? Does it have protective covering like some bacteria/spores? I'm no bio guru, but I think these things would matter more than the particular type... although what is the metabolism rate of each, and how in general does metabolism compare with viability/life?
 
  • #3


The lifespan of a cell outside of a living host can vary greatly depending on the type of cell and the conditions it is exposed to. Generally, most cells can only survive for a few hours outside of a living host, as they require specific nutrients and environmental factors to function properly. Cancerous cells, which have mutated and lost some of their normal functions, may have a shorter lifespan outside of a living host. However, it is important to note that cancer cells can continue to divide and grow in a lab setting, making them potentially immortal in that environment. It is also important to consider that some cells, such as bacterial cells, can survive for longer periods of time outside of a living host due to their ability to form protective structures such as spores. Overall, the lifespan of a cell outside of a living host is highly dependent on the type of cell and the environment it is exposed to.
 

1. How long can a cell survive outside of a living host?

The survival time of a cell outside of a living host varies greatly depending on the type of cell and the conditions it is exposed to. Some cells, such as bacterial cells, can survive for a short period of time (a few hours) without a host, while others, such as human skin cells, can survive for several days outside of a living organism.

2. What factors affect the lifespan of a cell outside of a host?

The lifespan of a cell outside of a host is affected by several factors, including the type of cell, the environment it is in, and the availability of nutrients and oxygen. Cells that are exposed to harsh conditions, such as extreme temperatures or lack of moisture, will have a shorter lifespan compared to cells in more favorable conditions.

3. Can a cell survive indefinitely outside of a living host?

No, a cell cannot survive indefinitely outside of a living host. Eventually, all cells will die due to natural processes or exposure to harmful conditions. However, some types of cells, such as bacterial cells, have the ability to form dormant structures called spores that can survive for extended periods of time.

4. How does the lifespan of a cell outside of a host compare to its lifespan inside a host?

The lifespan of a cell outside of a host is typically much shorter than its lifespan inside a host. This is because cells inside a living organism are constantly replenished and supported by the body's systems, while cells outside of a host are more vulnerable to damage and lack the necessary resources to survive for extended periods of time.

5. Can a cell from one organism survive outside of a host from a different organism?

In most cases, no. Cells are highly specialized and adapted to survive within a specific environment and host organism. While some cells may be able to survive for a short period of time outside of their host species, they will eventually die due to the lack of necessary resources and support from their host organism.

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