Immobilization of anchorage-dependent animal cells was investigated using macroporous gelatin microcarriers developed in our laboratory. For the observation of the distribution of cells in macroporous beads, Vero-6 cells and CHO cells were cuttured and their distribution in macroporous beads was observed using a confocal microscope. In results, the final concentration of Vero-6 cells and CHO cells on macroporous beads was 2-3 times higher than that on commercial solid microcarriers (Cytodex-3). Also, macroporous microcarriers could hold cells in their macropores. Consequently, the pores protected cells against hydrodynamic shear. Based on Kolmogorov eddy length scale, the smaller eddies (80 $mu $m) showed the detrimental effect on cells in macroporous beads as compared with 160 $mu $m of eddies in conventional solid microcarriers.