Understanding Cell Culture Media

Scientists who perform laboratory research in the life sciences need to produce conditions in the lab that cater to the survival and/or growth of living cells. This is where cell culture media comes in.

At Cell Culture Company, we implement a well-tested, proven system that facilitates the acceptance of cell lines into our manufacturing center for multiplication and growth. Our system keeps the identity of your cell line protected and utilizes mycoplasma screening to confirm your cells are safe to work with in our facility and production process.

What is Cell Culture Media?

Another name for cell culture media is growth media. This term refers to any liquid or gel developed to help facilitate the growth of cells in an artificial setting. This artificial environment is essential for cells, tissues, and organs scientists remove from living creatures, if they are to remain viable. Cell culture technology relies on culture medium in the support of in vitro cellular research. This medium is the source of nutrients cell cultures need to survive and multiply. It also provides proper pH and osmolality, which is the concentration of dissolved particles of minerals and chemicals.

When selecting a proper growth medium, scientists must factor in the type of cells involved. The types of cell culture media chosen must be based on a variety of factors, including whether the cells are from mammals, insects, plants, viruses, bacteria, or yeast. Results of experiments depend on the correct choice of cell culture medium.

Elements of Cell Culture Media

Cell culture media consist of a mixture of nutrients and compounds designed to help promote the growth of cells. Common components of cell culture media include amino acids, carbohydrates, vitamins, basic and trace elements, inorganic salts, hormones, serum, buffering systems, and antibiotics.

Types of Cell Culture Media

There are two major categories of cell culture media – natural and synthetic. Natural media come from animal body fluids or tissue extraction, and may include tissue extracts, biological fluids, and clots or coagulants. Synthetic media, also referred to as artificial media, are produced using various compounds (organic and inorganic).

For information about the services we offer to our clients in the fields of genomics, diagnostics, point-of-care, research, and genetic engineering, call us today at 763.786.0302 or complete our contact form.