Flow cytometric analysis of human nucleus pulposus (NP) cells.

<p>NP cell–alginate 3D composites were exposed to saline, radiocontrast agent (iotrolan), or local anesthetic agents (lidocaine and bupivacaine) for 30, 60, or 120 min, cultured 24 h, then the NP cells were isolated for analysis. (<b>A</b>) Flow cytometry scatter plots. (<b>B</b>) Time- and dose-dependent effects on cell viability (*, p<0.05 vs. untreated control and saline at the same exposure time). (<b>C</b>) Dose-dependent effects on cell apoptosis after 60 min (*, p<0.05). Data are from five independent experiments (mean ± SE). Bup, bupivacaine; Lid, lidocaine.