Provided herein are methods of culturing cells in vitro in order to exploit the biochemical production ability of the cells to make metabolites that are evaluated and harvested for their biological effects. Also provided are systems for evaluating extracts from such cultured cells to characterize their biological activity(s), particularly with regard to impact on health, wellbeing, longevity, DNA maintenance, mitochondrial health and/or biogenesis, and so forth. Biologically active extracts, components thereof, and compositions (such as cosmetic or pharmaceutical preparations) made comprising such, are also provided.
