Question

The basic unit of life is the cell, and now in a modern laboratory even mammalian cells can be easily cultured in a test tube or a flask. In this unit you have learned about the biomolecules of life such as carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids which come together to allow cells to form and function. You are required to design a cell culture medium for maintaining mammalian cells, what are your key considerations? (hint: you need to describe the key nutrients and the underlying reason for them, and the pH of your medium). (total 100 words)

Answer 1

Culturing of mammalian cell require constant supply of nutrients required for growth. The basic cell culture media and their roles are given below.

1. Amino acids- For the synthesis of proteins required for cell proliferation and growth.

2. Carbohydrates - Provides source of energy.

3. Proteins - For cell functioning and proliferation.

4. Fatty acids and lipids - Important for the cellular growth.

5. Trace elements - Trace elements promote cell growth and protein synthesis.

6. Buffering system - Mammalian cells will grow at a pH range of 7.2 - 7.4. Buffering system maintain the pH of the media.

7. Antibiotics - Used to eliminate culture contamination.