PVA-based scaffolds enable efficient, scalable adherent cell culture.
HOUSTON— Kuraray America, Inc. (KAI) announced the U.S. launch of SCAPOVA™, an innovative series of polyvinyl alcohol (PVA) microcarriers designed to enhance efficiency and scalability in adherent cell culture for regenerative medicine and cell therapy applications. SCAPOVA™ is for research use only.
Developed using Kuraray’s proprietary polymer technology, SCAPOVA™ acts as a microscopic scaffold for adherent cells. The PVA material’s biocompatibility and chemical stability support efficient three-dimensional cell growth inside bioreactors, with resistance to continuous agitation. The design delivers cell proliferation and offers easy handling, enabling researchers to scale from laboratory to process development while maintaining consistent quality.
“SCAPOVA™ represents Kuraray’s commitment to developing pioneering technologies that aim to improve quality of life and scientific advancement.” said Hans Vandommele, President and CEO of Kuraray America. “This product brings nearly a century of polymer expertise to the rapidly growing regenerative medicine field.”
SCAPOVA™ is manufactured at the Kuraray Tsukuba Research Center, an ISO 9001 certified facility, in Japan. The SCAPOVA™ series includes two variants:
- SCAPOVA™ CL — Coated with Porcine Type I collagen, providing a biologically familiar surface for efficient attachment and proliferation of adherent cell types, including human mesenchymal stem cells (hMSCs), fibroblasts, and other therapeutic cell types.
- SCAPOVA™ AS — An Animal Origin Free (AOF) option for xeno-free and serum-free culture systems. Supports cell types that do not thrive on collagen-coated carriers, such as human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPS cells). Users can customize the surface with preferred extracellular matrix (ECM) proteins or peptides to optimize adhesion for specific cell types.
Both options are available at the same time in the U.S. market. Customers interested in clinical applications should contact Kuraray directly. SCAPOVA™ microcarriers are available through Nacalai USA at www.nacalaiusa.com.
Kuraray will showcase the product at the SLAS2026 International Conference & Exhibition, February 7–11, 2026, in Boston (Booth 2623). For more information, visit www.kuraray.co.jp/microcarriers.
About Kuraray
Founded in 1926, Kuraray is a world leader in performance-based polymer and specialty materials technologies, including resins, chemicals, fibers, and textiles. The Company operates many subsidiaries around the world, including Kuraray America, Inc., headquartered in Houston, Texas. The Kuraray Group is committed to developing new fields of business using pioneering technology that improves the environment and enhances the quality of life throughout the world. To learn more about Kuraray America, Inc., visit https://kuraray.us.com/products/.
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