We have studied the effect of enhanced oxygen delivery by perfluorocarbons on the differentiation of C2C12 cells. The extent of differentiation was assessed by means of phase contrast/fluorescence microscopy, active tension measurement and the glucose consumption/lactate production rates. We found that enhanced oxygen delivery is suitable for full differentiation of C2C12 cells. (C) 2010, The Society for Biotechnology, Japan. All rights reserved.