Cell Culture Supplements

Cell culture supplements are growth media additives that are required for the healthy expansion or differentiation of cells. Certain cell types, such as mammalian cells, require additional compounds in addition to basal media. These include amino acids (such as L-glutamine), glucose, vitamins, and proteins. Protein supplements have traditionally been added as fetal bovine serum (FBS), a type of undefined, animal-based solution. Bovine serum albumin has also been used. However, in certain biomedical applications, chemically-defined and serum-free supplements are required. Commercial formulations have been developed by various manufacturers that tailor to specific cell types, such as neurons, stem cells, hematopoietic cells, and more. Visit the media supplier pages for more information.