Answer to Question #147587 in Molecular Biology for Cameron Hicks

Question

I am trying to understand how to select the best natural/synthetic cell culture media (substrate) so that I can adhere a tissue culture from 2 animals (Catfish and an Electric Eel), is there any good processes to take to decide on the substrate, or can you give me any good recommendations from your knowledge or research papers?? The culture needs to be sustained for a long period of time! Huge thanks

Answer 1

For natural media and for long application time, I recommend Bovine Serum Culture Media. It is the best despite several disadvantages, it has the following advantages;

• Consist of a wide variety of cellular nutrients, such as amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and fatty acids.
• Provide components that allow for cell adherence.
• Contain a variety of growth factors and hormones.

The disadvantages are;

• Lack compositional uniformity, making it poorly suited for large-scale experiments. 
• Contain a mixture of compounds, some of which can be harmful to or inhibit the growth of certain cell types.
• Have a greater risk of contamination when compared to artificial media.
• May complicate the isolation of cell culture products. 
• Can be expensive.

Despite the many disadvantages, it is still the best natural media.

For synthetic media I recommend a variety such as;

• Serum-containing media 
• Serum-free media
• Chemically defined media:  
• Protein-free media  
• Balanced salt solutions (BSS)

However, it is best to consult the manufactures to give advice based on their own specifications.

Reference

Ott, T. (2004). Tissue culture of fish cell lines. NWFHS Laboratory procedures manual, 2, 1-16.