The Double-Edged Sword of Ethanol in Cell Culture Labs

Have you’ve ever worked in a cell culture lab?

If not , let me tell you that ethanol one crucial chemical that you will find in the lab that will be used on daily basis for disinfecting surfaces to wiping down biosafety cabinets and sterilizing equipment.

70% ethanol is a daily staple

Ethanol has a broad-spectrum antimicrobial properties which in turn helps in keeping our cell cultures free from contamination.

Did you ever think that when a chemical have such strong anti-microbial properties may also have some side effects to the users ?

Driving Action of ethanol :

Ethanol works by denaturing proteins and dissolving lipids, effectively destroying the protective membranes of bacteria and some viruses. At 70% concentration, it penetrates cells better than higher concentrations, making it more effective at disinfection. It evaporates quickly and leaves no residue , which is a dream for cleanroom environments.

Hidden Side effects:

Frequent and prolonged exposure to ethanol affect your health and have subtle side effects.

Respiratory irritation	Long exposure cause dryness of throat , nasal irritation and breathing difficulty.
Skin	Even when wearing gloves your hands aren’t completely protected from ethanol. This leads to causing dryness and cracked skin. They destroy the natural oil secreted by skin and it makes the skin vulnerable to irritation and dermatitis.
Eyes	When your working small and confined area like biosafety cabinet , frequent spraying can irritate your eyes.

Simple ways to protect yourself ?

Eliminating ethanol in cell culture work isn't an option, But we could take some measure to overcome such side effects.

1. Is it very important for the lab to be designed with proper ventilation, to ensure the air circulation is well designed and helps in maintaining clean air.

2. Have biosafety cabinet sashes at appropriate heights while disinfecting.

3. Try to use moisturizing barrier creams regularly after lab work to ensure the skin doesn't get dry .

4. Try to take regular break from lab and have a walk in fresh or open space to clear your respiratory system .

Ethanol is, without doubt, a lab essential but like any good tool, it’s important to use it mindfully.

Recognizing its side effects and taking simple precautions can go a long way in maintaining not just sterile environments, but also your personal well-being.

References:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). (2020). Chemical Disinfectants: Ethanol.

   https://www.cdc.gov/infectioncontrol/guidelines/disinfection/disinfection-methods/chemical.html

2. World Health Organization (WHO). (2004). Laboratory Biosafety Manual, 3rd Edition. Available at: https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/9241546506

3. Kampf, G. (2018). Efficacy of ethanol against viruses in hand disinfection. Journal of Hospital Infection, 98(4), 331–338. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jhin.2017.08.025

4. Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). (n.d.). Ethyl Alcohol (Ethanol) – Health Effects. Available at: https://www.osha.gov/chemicaldata/chemResult.html?recNo=427